Sun, Mar 23, 2003 - Page 24 News List

Els picks up game as Woods faces woes

ON AND OFF THE GREEN America's favorite golfer had to deal with his girlfriend falling ill and the challenges posed by an ambitious competitor

NEW YORK TIMES , ORLANDO, FLORIDA

After the rain, Els picked up with birdies at No. 6 and No. 7. Woods was tee off at 7am yesterday to complete his round. Els will sleep in.

"It will be great to chill out at the house a little bit," said Els, who owns a home not far from Bay Hill.

While Els is relaxed off the course, he has made a new commitment to his career at age 33. Though he is married with two children, Els has decided to push himself like never before, to maximize his talent, and to see where it takes him. So far, the results have been splendid.

"My family is behind me, I've got other people behind me," said Els. "When I'm done, I'll tell you if it was worth it. But I think it will be worth it."

A victory this weekend would help make Els' commitment worthwhile. And through almost two rounds, it looks as if Els and Woods could be on a collision course.

"I feel like I'm playing good at the moment," Els said. "If I keep it up, I'll give myself a chance."

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