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Mark Hubbard Takes Lead with Stunning Finish at Valero Texas Open

Posted : 03 April 2026

Mark Hubbard made a dramatic late surge to seize the opening-round lead at the Valero Texas Open, carding a 7-under 65 with six birdies over his final eight holes.

His bold play included attacking the par-5 18th creek and converting a clutch birdie to finish at dark, giving him a one-shot advantage in the storm-delayed session at TPC San Antonio.

Hubbard’s finishing run lifted him out of a six-way tie that included Tony Finau, with dozens of players competing for a chance to secure a spot in next week’s Masters.

He began his charge from the middle of the pack, hitting a 25-foot birdie putt amid two short-range birdies and continuing the momentum with up-and-downs and precise approaches over the closing holes.

Finau also had a strong round despite a slow start, making an opening par on No. 10 and chipping to save par on No. 11. The American then caught fire, sinking a 40-foot eagle putt on the par-5 14th and finishing at 66, joining Andrew Putnam, Steven Fisk, Davis Thompson, and Robert MacIntyre at one shot back. MacIntyre is already qualified for the Masters, while others are still hoping to earn a tee time.

A large group at 67 included Masters-bound players like Tommy Fleetwood, Ludvig Åberg, and Maverick McNealy, as well as hopefuls such as Will Zalatoris.

 Zalatoris, 10 months removed from back surgery, managed eight birdies despite two late bogeys, emphasizing his ongoing comeback. “The patience game is obviously brutal,” he said, reflecting on his recovery and progress.

Jordan Spieth also faced challenges closing out his round. After nearly finishing with birdie-birdie, he missed a 7-foot birdie on the 18th and a short par putt, ending with a 71.

Meanwhile, Austin Smotherman experienced a personal and professional high point, celebrating the birth of his third daughter remotely before hitting a hole-in-one on the 13th hole to finish just two shots off the lead with a 68.

Thursday’s opening round featured calm conditions following morning rain, which softened the course and allowed preferred lies. The dramatic finishes, remarkable comebacks, and standout performances set the stage for an exciting second round at the Valero Texas Open.

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