CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Scott Gardiner ended his streak of eight missed cuts in a row by taking the early lead Friday in the Wells Fargo Championship.
Gardiner ran off four straight birdies at the turn and made all pars the rest of the way for a 5-under 67 at Quail Hollow. That gave him a one-shot lead among the early starters, with some heavyweights right behind.
Rory McIlroy overcame a rugged start for a 71, while Lee Westwood had a 68. Also one shot back was Rod Pampling, the ninth alternate who was planning to play on the Web.com Tour this week.
Gardiner said he was surprised to be leading. He has not made a cut since Pebble Beach, nearly three months ago.
