COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) — Stewart Cink and Padraig Harrington both shot impressive rounds at the U.S. Senior Open on Friday, finishing tied for the lead at 6-under 134 after their second rounds at the Broadmoor. Cink managed to erase a five-shot deficit against Harrington over nine holes, with both players heading into the weekend in a strong position.
Harrington started on the challenging back nine and shot a 31 to take a five-shot lead. However, Cink responded with a 31 of his own on the front nine to catch up and tie the score. Cink’s consistent performance saw him hitting all 18 greens in regulation, showcasing his skill on the difficult course at the Broadmoor with its tricky greens sloping away from a prominent monument on Cheyenne Mountain.
Cink, a former British Open champion making his debut at the U.S. Senior Open, emphasized the importance of avoiding downhill chip shots on the course. Harrington, a multiple major champion, initially maintained his lead with a birdie on the third hole but later faltered with a couple of three-putts resulting in bogeys.
The round concluded with both players finishing under dark clouds and a brief delay due to inclement weather. They were two shots ahead of Mark Hensby, the first-round co-leader, with several players still in contention for the weekend.
Despite their different playing styles, Cink and Harrington both showcased their skills and mutual respect for each other on the course. With their strong performances, they looked poised to continue battling it out in the upcoming rounds of the tournament.
