At Hurstbourne Country Club in Louisville, Kentucky, Chan Kim shot a remarkable 9-under 61 on Thursday to seize the opening-round lead at the ISCO Championship, an event on the PGA Tour also recognized by the DP World Tour. His strong performance puts him in a prime position to contend for his first PGA Tour victory, showcasing his skill with seven birdies and an eagle.
Highlight shots and key challengers in the early leaderboard
Kim’s round included a standout moment when he holed out from 123 yards for an eagle on the par-4 fourth hole, giving him great momentum early in the day. He holds a four-shot advantage over England’s Callum Shinkwin, Germany’s Thomas Rosenmueller, and American Peter Malnati, who all share second place at 5-under.
The hole-out on 4 definitely kick-started the morning,
Chan said.
I’m really proud of how I played today.
—Chan Kim, Golfer
Chan Kim aiming to turn strong start into more success
Kim, 35, has enjoyed eight wins on the Japan Golf Tour but is seeking his breakthrough on the PGA Tour. Born in South Korea, he grew up in Hawaii and played collegiate golf at Arizona State University. His recent form has improved after a stretch of missed cuts.
I’ve missed the last six out of seven cuts, so that’s a good feeling to kind of not have to really worry about it.
Kim said.
But, obviously I would love to still play pretty aggressive and see if I can shoot another couple low ones.
—Chan Kim, Golfer
Strong plays from other contenders add competitive edge
Callum Shinkwin matched Kim’s eagle feat, holing out from 107 yards on the 12th hole, steadying his charge up the leaderboard. He emphasized the importance of maintaining focus during the challenging conditions.
I didn’t make any mistakes, which is obviously key,
Shinkwin said.
It’s very easy to lose concentration in the heat.
—Callum Shinkwin, Golfer
Additional notable performers and tournament context
The ISCO Championship offers the winner a two-year PGA Tour exemption along with an invitation to the PGA Championship and The Open next season. Last year’s champion, Harry Hall, is competing in the Scottish Open after qualifying for The Open, while other contenders like Steven Fisk, Troy Merritt, Angel Ayora, Cristobal Del Solar, and Kevin Kisner remain within striking distance, each opening with solid scores.
Emiliano Grillo carded a 67, recovering well after a playoff loss last week at the John Deere Classic. Auburn University’s Jackson Koivun shot 72, building on a recent top-15 finish at the same event, while Kentucky native J.B. Holmes posted a 74 playing on a sponsor exemption.
Prospects for the tournament’s next rounds
Kim’s commanding lead demonstrates his potential to capture a first PGA Tour title, which would mark a significant milestone in his career. With his confidence boosted and a challenging field pressing from behind, the upcoming rounds at the ISCO Championship promise exciting competition and opportunities for players vying for status and major championship entries.