The Zurich Classic in New Orleans is officially underway, with the featured duos taking the course by a storm. The Højgaard twins got off to a hot round one start, tying the course record with a 59. Just as those in attendance thought they had seen the best yet, rookies Isaiah Salinda and Kevin Velo step up and break the course record. Finishing off their first round of play with a record-breaking 58, and nothing but smiles across the board. Being able to prove to not only themselves but a talented field of play, that they are extremely talented and ready to put it on display come this tournament. It will be interesting to see whether or not the two can continue their heater, or take a few steps back and work their way up again.
New Duo In Town
With the previous tournament winners in Rory Mcllroy and Shane Lowry in competition, staying on top of your A-game is ideal. With both Velo and Salinda putting forth strong appearances, they have a nice baseline to improve on ahead of round two.
“It’s very easy to play golf when you have a partner who’s stacking it and making every putt,” Velo said. “I kind of sprinkled in some birdies when we needed to, but I was pretty much on his back all day.”
Having that ideal tandem between the two, only makes this tournament that much easier. Similar to the Højgaard brothers, it’s about finding what both do the best and adding that into one game. It is an extreme accomplishment to come out round one, and grab the course record. Especially with the fact that the Højgaard twins were just one putt away from breaking that course record as well. The talent all around is continuing to grow throughout every tournament, only resulting in players needing to put their best foot forward every outing. Come round two, Salinda and Velo will have a much deserved target on their back. As they attempt to continue a strong tournament appearance, even with a chance to break their new imposed course record.
Can The Duo Continue Dominance?
It is clear after one day at the Zurich Classic, Velo and Salinda are two of the most newly energetic faces to the sport of golf. Not only have the two accomplished impressive things between each other, but now have a chance at a career duo win. During their time together on the Korn Ferry Tour, to now both in their rookie season on the PGA Tour. The lights are bright and the two are not backing down from competition by any means.
“ I honestly think it’s important to play with somebody you enjoy playing with, you know, one of your friends,” Salinda said. “We’ve stayed really close since being young junior golfers, and we have been looking forward to this event for a while now.”
Round two is set to take place Friday evening, with the two eager to continue their strong showings. All eyes will be on the duo and if they can now break their own course record on the big stage.
Main Photo Credit: © Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images
