It was a pretty good first round to the KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship for Adilson da Silva. In fact, it was a pretty good first round in the United States ever for the Brazilian pro who lives in South Africa, as he shot a five-under 67 and sits tied for third after 18 holes.
Da Silva turned 50 a year-and-a-half ago and started playing the Legends Tour in Europe last year. He’s won twice on that tour, including just last week. Since he finished runner-up on the Order of Merit there last season he earned his way into this week and the US Senior Open.
Da Silva played last week in Austria and the week prior in South Africa, so it’s been a whirlwind for him to arrive in San Francisco, but he’s excited to take advantage of the opportunity. And so far, so good.
“I’m really excited to be here,” Da Silva said. “It’s my first time to America and people say it’s big and better and it is. It’s an eye opener. It’s an amazing place, amazing people, amazing golf course. It’s just incredible.”
Da Silva finds himself three-strokes off the lead which was held by Padraig Harrington of Ireland, who carded a bogey-free 64. Harrington led by two from Japan’s Katsumasa Miyamoto. Da Silva shared third with Phillip Price of Wales. Seven players were in a share of fifth on four-under.
Ernie Els carded a one-under 71 for a share of 31st, and Retief Goosen had a level-par 72 for a share of 41st together with James Kingston.
