Rohanna cards even-par round in first PGA Latinoamerica event
Robert Rohanna has never really played in a golf tournament quite like this before in his career.
First, it’s out of the country (Colombia). Second, the Ruitoque Golf Country Club is at elevation (over 3,000 feet). And, third, it’s on the PGA TOUR Latinoamerica.
The Waynesburg native opened the Arturo Calle Colombian Open Thursday with an even-par 70 to sit tied in 51st place after the first round. American Daniel Mazziotta sits in first place after the opening 18 holes with a 7-under 63.
Rohanna believes the the cut to be the top 60 scores and ties.
Rohanna opened with a 12:14 p.m. tee time on No. 10, and sailed through the first six holes at even-par 22. He bogeyed No. 16 (his seventh hole), parred No. 17, and closed his front nine with a birdie on No. 18, a par-5, to go out in even-par 34.
Rohanna dropped shots on the first two holes on his back nine with bogeys on No. 1 (a par-4) and No. 2 (a par-3). He got one of those lost shots back with a birdie on No. 4, a par-4, and the second shot with his fourth birdie of the round on No. 7, another par-5.
“Yeah, I beat it around a little today,” explained Rohanna via Facebook message. “I hit lots of quality shots that I didn’t take advantage of on the greens.
“I just couldn’t get them right today. I hit 15 greens and had 33 putts! I could’ve played better, but it could’ve been worse. But, I’m okay with today.”
Playing at altitude caused adjustments through the round.
“The elevations here are insane. The ball goes forever, so judging the distance is very difficult, and add the wind and it’s even harder,” said Rohanna. “The afternoon played way tougher, so hopefully (Friday’s tee time) at 7:14 a.m. can beat the wind and I have to make some putts.”
Rohanna also spoke of playing golf in a foreign land.
“It honestly was a little different, but not in the way you think. The starter barely spoke English, but she was very nice. It’s cool because of the sponsor signs everywhere and spectators. I’m sure the weekend will be different.”