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Hovland is in a three-way tie atop the
leaderboard with Brooks Koepka and Jon Rahm after nailing an
early eagle and five birdies to post his lowest round at a major
at seven-under par.
The 25-year-old, who resides in Stillwater, Oklahoma, said he
has recently spent time playing golf while bundled up.
"The few weeks that I've had at home the last two months, I
would say it's been really cold, and I've played with three,
four layers in 30-degree weather," Hovland told reporters.
"I've definitely had enough practice in those types of
conditions. But I haven't played Augusta National in that type
of weather, so that will be interesting to see how that goes."
Rain and thunderstorms are forecast for Friday and the weekend
will see temperatures drop into the 40s with heavy rain on
Saturday with more showers and cool conditions forecast for
Sunday's final round.
Hovland, who stood out as much for his play as the bold floral
pattern on his shirt, said it is easier to protect a lead than
gain ground when conditions deteriorate.
"If you're five, six, seven shots back, it's really difficult to
make up that much ground if this place is playing very
difficult," he said.
"So obviously getting off to a nice start is key this week."
After his bogey-free round, Hovland said another key was staying
humble lest the famed course humbles you.
"If you get a little too cocky and you want to push a few spots
that you probably shouldn't, it will punish you very quickly,"
he said.
(Reporting by Rory Carroll in Los Angeles; Editing by Stephen
Coates)
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