The first day of action at Augusta National did not disappoint. As predicted, one player, Justin Rose, shot out of the starting gate and build a three stroke lead. Scottie Scheffler, Ludvig Åberg and Corry Connors (Canadian) are in second place at four under par. Like many players, Rory had a great round going until the two double bogeys down the stretch. Of note, Freddie Couples shot one under par to recorded the second oldest player to shoot this score in Masters history – Go Freddie! The action was great on the first day, so what can we expect on the second?

In professional golf, “Moving Day” refers to the third day of a four-day tournament, typically Saturday. However, considering the lead that Rose established after day one. I would suggest that any player more that five strokes back (-2 or higher), today (Friday) is moving day. Augusta National is a tough course to manage at the best of time, but fighting against such a large lead will require some daring ball striking and a hot putter. If after today, players are not within five strokes of the leader, I predict they are playing for prize money as the Green Jacket will be out of reach.

Who is going to the movers today you might ask. I find it interesting to try and predict who will be near the top leaderboard after today’s action. I would suggest that the players in second place will gain a stroke or two on Rose. I predict Rose will shoot two under today and the other three will shoot three or four under. The big mover for today will be Victor Hovland who will shoot six under. Hovland is regaining his form of previous years and I think he will be the player to capture our attention today.

There were some pretty crazy scorecards on day one of play. I can only describe the golf scores as a rollercoaster ride as players shot almost as many birdies as pars, but countered that with many bogeys and doubles. Golfing at Augusta National is a challenge for the first tee and when players do not take advantage of reachable par 5s, it makes for a long day.

I want to give an honorable mention to Freddie Couples who shot an outstanding score of one under at age 65. He continues to amaze spectators with his smooth, silky swing and ageless participation at The Masters. I am predicating he will make the cut and have fun doing it. Additionally, I want to give a shout out to the two top (5 amateurs in the field) amateur: Jose Luis Ballester and Justin Hastings are sitting at four over par. They have some work if they want to make the cut this year.

The second day of the 2025 Masters is about to begin. The action will be exciting and I look forward to taking in all the action. More to follow later in the day.

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!