Steven Bowditch adapts to changing conditions

With warmer temperatures and clear skies, conditions at Augusta National Golf Club changed from a soggy Monday to a firm and fast Thursday.

Playing his first Masters Tournament, Steven Bowditch said he’s still learning something new on every hole as he goes through each round. That includes the changing conditions.

“Compared to Wednesday, they’re probably a foot and a half, two feet quicker on the flat putt,” Bowditch said. “So you can imagine what that does to it.”

Bowditch shot 2-over-par 74 Thursday in his first competitive round at Augusta National. The 30-year-old Australian, who won the Texas Open last month to make the field, said he was pleased with his first round.

“It was a great day,” he said. “I loved it. Perfect weather. I couldn’t ask for a better start.”

Bowditch said he was able to settle down quickly after a nerve-wracking first hole, which he parred.

“I’m glad I settled down after a couple holes and just really enjoyed myself,” he said. “I was quite nervous. But I didn’t expect to fall asleep on the first tee.”