Stupples Leads, Ochoa 1 Back at Kraft Nabisco - Scott, Wagner Tied at Shell Houston Open

Brit Karen Stupples, -5, 67, leads the Kraft Nabisco Championship after Round #1 today. Who else but Lorena Ochoa lurks at one behind along with Ai Miyazato. There's a two way tie for 3rd between Heather Young and Natalie Gulbis. Mission Hills Country Club is the long time location for the event.

This is the first major championship of the year for the ladies and carries it's own special tradition. The winner ceremoniously leaps into the pond at the 18th hole to culminate her victory. I'd like to see something similar on the P.G.A. Tour. Won't hold my breath though. I reckon Woody Austin is as close as we'll get.

Notables finishing include Annika, Morgan Pressel, and Paula Creamer all in at -1. I have no favorites here, but in the interest of a riveting telecast, let's hope Lorena doesn't win by ten strokes.

SHELL HOUSTON OPEN

Adam Scott and Johnson Wagner lead the Shell Houston Open with a pair of spectacular 63s or nine under par. The closest pursuers are Steve Stricker at -6 and a foursome at -5 to include Briny "The Hat" Baird, Steve Elkington, Geoff Ogilvy, and Dean Wilson. All four have played well of late with Ogilvy winning at Doral.

The players think of this event as a Masters tune up. Tournament officials have gone out of their way to mimic the set up at Augusta National. 1st cut only for the rough and bikini waxed greens have attracted a number of players specifically for that reason. The suits at Augusta National can't fire me for the comment, unlike Gary McCord.

Luminaries' scores include Phil Mickelson at even par and Jose Maria Olazabal at -3. I gotta figure Phil's a little ticked with his round since he's definitely using this as a Masters prelude. Olazabal's score is noteworthy because he's coming off a long hiatus due to rheumatism. He loves Augusta National and should always be considered a contender there.

Is it just me, or should the winner's share in a tournament sponsored by an oil company be a bazillion dollars?

Average Golfer's proof that the end of the world is upon us. John Daly's 78, T133, 15 shots out of the lead. And people are still offering him exemptions. What are the odds for tomorrow on a JD WD?

Til' next,