Choi Kyung-joo Ranks Second at Barclays

“Tank” Choi Kyung-joo (Nike Golf) is tied for second, just one shot behind the front-runner at the Barclays, the first event of the PGA Tour’s FedEx Cup playoff.

Choi shot seven-under-par 64 with eight birdies and one bogey at the first round yesterday at Westchester Country Club, Harrison, New York, tying Rich Beem from the U.S.. Rory Sabbatini from South Africa is leading with a score of eight-under-par 63.

The round was the first event of the FedEx Cup playoff, and three more events are remaining. The final winner will receive $10 million in prize money.

Choi said that he would spend the prize money on establishing a charity foundation if he wins. He showed a good performance with an 83.3 percent Green In Regulation ratio, and a 1.467 put on average per hole.

South African golfer Ernie Els (six-under-par 65) tied for fourth, and Phil Mickelson from the U.S. was tied for 11th place (four-under-par 67). Tiger Woods did not participate in the event.

kjs0123@donga.com