Chilled out Cameron Smith sets the pace at The RBC Heritage, but can he convert the win?
After the rigours of Augusta National the Australian enjoyed a stress-free lap of Harbour Town to claim a one shot first round lead over Stewart Cink.
Smith will beware of the challenge of two-time course winner Cink, but also the hungry Englishman Matt Wallace and the current PGA Championship title holder Collin Morikawa who share third on 6-under.
Smith on the state of his physical and mental game
On nearly holing out for an eagle-2 at the 18th hole
On the condition of Harbour Town, his relationship with it and the contrast with Augusta National
A new career low for Cameron Smith. 🔥
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) April 15, 2021
He leads by 1 @RBC_Heritage. pic.twitter.com/LIqGv2riLO
Smith's numbers
Cameron Smith shot 62 today at Harbour Town despite losing strokes to the field on approach.
— Justin Ray (@JustinRayGolf) April 15, 2021
For the other 3,000+ rounds at Harbour Town the last 15 years with negative strokes gained approach, the scoring average was 72.3.
First round leaders at Harbour Town
A career-low 62 for Cameron Smith was almost a 61. 🤭 pic.twitter.com/Cv3y2w2FLY
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) April 15, 2021
Conclusion
Paddy Power rate him an 11/4 shot and that's tight. Moreover, it's entirely possible that if you like his chances he will be a bigger price at some point later in the week.
He's also 8/11 to win his round two three-ball. Is the value with 12/5 Sebastian Munoz (72 in round one) or 7/2 Tyler Duncan (71)?