Brian Harman, a University of Georgia product, showcased his unflappable personality and love for Colonial Country Club during the Charles Schwab Challenge in Fort Worth, Texas. The classic course, known as “Hogan’s Alley,” underwent a significant renovation by Gil Hanse and Jim Wagner, providing a modernized feel with fresher fairways and firmer greens. Despite some near-misses in the past, Harman shot a 66 in the opening round, tying for the lead alongside top-ranked players like Scottie Scheffler, Jordan Spieth, and Collin Morikawa.
Harman’s strong start at Colonial was a notable departure from his recent performances, as he had struggled to break 70 in the opening rounds of his previous events. Even at the Players Championship, where he finished tied for second, Harman faced challenges in the first round. However, he managed to roll off four birdies on his first eight holes at the new Colonial course, showcasing his adaptability and skill on the course. While his final nine holes cooled off slightly, Harman remained pleased with his bogey-free performance.
Reflecting on the changes made to the course, Harman initially expressed positivity towards the renovations that aimed to reflect the original design by John Bredemus and Perry Maxwell. Despite his initial reservations about altering an iconic course, Harman acknowledged that the changes did not detract from the essence of Colonial. He emphasized the importance of allowing the course time to mature and for the grass to reach its optimal condition before passing final judgment on the modifications.
As a seasoned player with success at Colonial, Harman’s knowledge of the course proved valuable, even with the changes in place. His comfort with the layout and conditions gave him a competitive edge against younger players experiencing the course for the first time. Although the field at the Charles Schwab Challenge featured top talent, Harman’s experience and adaptability on the course allowed him to position himself well after the opening round.
Looking ahead, Harman expressed confidence in his game and his ability to execute under pressure. Despite recent results that may not have reflected his performance on the course, Harman remained optimistic about his form and mindset heading into the tournament. As the competition continued at Colonial Country Club, Harman’s steady play and strategic approach set him apart as a contender to watch in the Charles Schwab Challenge.
