SAN ANTONIO — Matt Bettencourt shot a 5-under par 67 yesterday to earn a share of the lead with Peter Tomasulo, and hold off a field that includes Rory McIlroy, after the first round of the Texas Open.
Minus the jitters and shakes he’s become so accustomed to, Bettencourt needed only 25 putts to hold off a group of four players — including former British Open and PGA Championship winner Padraig Harrington — at 4-under.
McIlroy, who entered the tournament as a final opportunity to prep for next week’s Masters, opened with an even-par 72 and is tied for 45th.
Bettencourt only made the tournament as an alternate after Henrik Stenson withdrew.
Ten players, including Jim Furyk, are two shots back of the lead at 3 under.