GOLF: Amateur Cowan dazzles in US Open first round

SOUTHAMPTON, New York – College student Ryder Cowan played well beyond his 21 years to share the clubhouse lead after the first round of the U.S. Open on Thursday, posting a two-under-par 68 that tied the record for the lowest round by an amateur at Shinnecock Hills.

Starting on the back nine, Cowan recorded four birdies against two bogeys and showed composure in brutally windy conditions that challenged even seasoned major champions. Play was later suspended due to darkness in Southampton.

“I’ve really just been trying this week to focus on each shot, especially today. One at a time, not worry about what’s going on in the crowds or everything. I’m not used to all these crowds. We don’t ever really play with a lot of crowds,” Cowan said.

“I’m just trying to take it one shot at a time.”

Cowan ended the day tied for the clubhouse lead with fellow Americans Sam Stevens and Max McGreevy, while former U.S. Open champion Wyndham Clark stood at six-under-par with two holes remaining when play was halted.

No amateur has won the U.S. Open since Johnny Goodman in 1933, placing Cowan among long odds in a deep 156-player field that includes 12 former U.S. Open champions.

Still, the University of Oklahoma standout said his preparation gave him confidence on one of golf’s biggest stages.

“I feel like all the work I put in every single day gives me that belief that I can come out here and play with anyone,” Cowan said. -Reporting by Amy Tennery in Southampton, New York; Editing by Christopher Cushing/Reuters