Rollins opens with 63 to lead new Sea Island event

ST. SIMONS ISLAND, Ga. (AP) - John Rollins doesn't want his year to end without a trophy.

Rollins kicked off the new McGladrey Classic on Thursday with his best round of the year, a 7-under 63 at Sea Island to take a one-shot lead over David Toms and rookie Troy Merritt.

It was a fast start for Rollins, inspired by a pep talk from his wife after he was unceremoniously eliminated from the FedEx Cup playoffs. Rollins was poised to advance to the third event until shooting a 79 the final day at the TPC Boston.

Zach Johnson and Matt Kuchar moved a bit slower having just returned from a long, wet week at the Ryder Cup. Kuchar challenged the lead until taking a double bogey on the 16th and shot 67. Johnson had a 70.

Davis Love, the tournament host and a vice captain in Wales, also had a 70.