Home / Sports / Waring Shocks Field with Early Lead at Houston Open
Waring Shocks Field with Early Lead at Houston Open
27 Mar
Summary
- Paul Waring, ranked outside top 300, leads the Texas Children's Houston Open.
- Waring shot a bogey-free 63, his lowest career PGA Tour round.
- This event is the final Masters qualification opportunity for many players.

England's Paul Waring delivered a stunning performance to claim the early lead after the first round of the Texas Children's Houston Open at Memorial Park Golf Course. The 41-year-old, currently ranked outside the world's top 300 and playing on a medical extension, posted a career-low PGA Tour round of 63. His bogey-free effort saw him finish seven under par, putting him ahead of contenders like Gary Woodland, who is one shot back.
Other notable players finding early success include Sam Burns, Tom Hoge, and Michael Brennan. English golfers Marco Penge and Matt Wallace are also within striking distance. The tournament is particularly significant as it represents the last opportunity for many golfers to qualify for The Masters, either through a victory this week or by securing a spot in the top 50 world rankings. Players not already exempt will need to perform exceptionally well to earn an invitation to Augusta National.