Saskatchewan golfer Graham DeLaet finishes 5 under par in round 1 at Rio
The golfer's come back after being sidelined, first by anxiety and then an injured back
Canadian golfer Graham DeLaet is off to a great start at the Rio Games.
DeLaet, who hails from Weyburn, Sask., opened play at the Olympic Golf Course this morning with a 5-under-par 66 in the men's individual golf category.
He closed his opening round with his sixth birdie of the day for the clubhouse lead. A short time later, Australian Marcus Fraser took over the top spot when he carded a 63.
The golfer's return to the green has been much anticipated. Earlier in the season, DeLaet took time off from the sport due to an anxiety he couldn't shake.
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DeLaet sought the help he needed and returned to the game, however, he sustained a back injury not long after and that also prevented him from playing.
He goes on to play round two on Friday morning. The final round is on Sunday morning.
David Hearn of Brantford, Ont., is the other Canadian in the 60-man field. He teed off a couple hours after DeLaet.
There are two other Canadian golfers at the Olympics. Brooke Henderson and Alena Sharp are representing Canada in the women's individual.
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Golf is back on the Olympic program this year for the first time since 1904.
With files from The Canadian Press