Scott in the hunt at PGA title defence

Feb 24, 2017 - 12:21 AM An ill Adam Scott has made a healthy start at his Honda Classic title defence in Florida.

Finding just four from 14 fairways during the opening round at West Palm Beach, the Australian world No.7 and defending champion shot a two-under-par 68.

He shares 24th place with a logjam of players including Spanish world No.9 Sergio Garcia, four shots back of leaders Cody Gribble and Wes Bryan.

The American duo each fired a six-under 64 to take a one-shot lead heading into Friday's second round over two-time major winner Martin Kaymer and India's Anirban Lahiri.

After his round at PGA National's Champion course, Scott's playing partner Justin Thomas (71) said the 36-year-old was under the weather.

"Yeah, Adam's not feeling too well," said Thomas, the American world No.8.

Also errant off the tee was Victorian Marc Leishman, who found just five fairways but scrambled to finish leading Australian with his three-under 67 enough to tie for 12th.

"I was scrambling all day. I was a little off with everything, but my short game and putting really saved me," said Leishman

"It's pleasing to shoot three under, especially given the rough was really, really tough."

Fellow Australian John Senden (69) sits at one-under, while Greg Chalmers signed for an even-par 70.

Brett Drewitt (72) was next best of the Aussies at two over through 16 holes, while Steven Bowditch signed for a five-over 75.

Victorian Cameron Percy withdrew midway through his round, citing a back injury.

Source: AAP