KEY POINTS:
Touring professional Jarrod Moseley and golf were troubled companions this year. So much so that the 34-year-old Australian put his career on hold for three months. "I needed a rest, I was angry with the game, I did not enjoy it, I did not need to chase it," he said yesterday.
Moseley was comparing those troubles and the satisfaction he gained by shooting a three-under 68 during some of the worst early conditions at Whangaparaoa yesterday.
Any residual anger disappeared when he pitched in for an eagle on the second hole he played after starting his round on the back nine. Moseley followed with birdies at the next two holes after another strong chip and then hitting a six iron close at the par three 14th.
"It was the perfect start out there on a tough back nine," said Moseley who woke yesterday fearing polar conditions at Gulf Harbour. "In the end it was probably not that cold but, when the rain came with the wind, it was a very, very difficult course. I think anything under par will be a fantastic round."
Conditions varied for the rest of the day although at times they were as brutal as those Moseley encountered as one of the early starters. "I enjoy the greens, I like putting here," said Moseley who finished seventh in the last New Zealand Open.
After his self-imposed rest, Moseley and his wife welcomed twin boys, Ajay and Angus, two months ago, to match their two daughters. Four children under 6 was demanding - but welcome when his focus was not entirely on golf. "I had been a professional for seven years and thought I would sit at home and enjoy this time," he said, "but it was difficult to stay away."
Moseley was not comfortable watching golf on television and returned to action in the recent Australian Masters. Yesterday he had one bogey in his opening half of three-under 33 and spoiled two birdies coming home with a double bogey at the sixth where he carved his tee shot on to a path and out of bounds. "It was my only bad swing of the day."
