Karabo Mokoena was so focused during his 62 in Thursday’s opening round of the Stella Artois Players Championship that it took some time for his incredible performance to sink in.
Mokoena’s round of eight birdies, an eagle and one bogey earned him a two-stroke lead over a group of five players at Randpark Golf Club.
“I’m only realising now that it was a good round. I checked the leaderboard and no one has managed to match the score, so I am really chuffed with that,” said Mokoena.
“My round was good. I didn’t have a chance to have fun, as the nerves were sky-high during the first round. I was just trying to stay in the moment and not rush anything, taking it a shot at a time.”
Mokoena believes his game is steadily improving and is hoping to build on this first round.
“I am definitely more certain with my decision making. I’ve made four out of five cuts during my last five tournaments, so the game is moving in the right direction. I am pleased with my position, hopefully I keep it going and improve my ranking. A good week will help me to get into a better position to be selected for the bigger tournaments,” Mokoena added.
The group of five players on seven under includes South Africans Ethan Smith, Nikhil Rama, Deon Germishuys and Jordan Burnand as well as Zimbabwe’s Stuart Krog.
Rama is also in good form at the moment after finishing fourth in last week’s Hyundai Open.
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Photo: Tyrone Winfield/Sunshine Tour
Article Link: Mokoena's 62 secures Players Championship lead