Palmer's company a treat for two players

By Bill Kwon
Special to The Advertiser

Kailua's Larry Stubblefield and Dick McClean, a former Kapalua pro now playing out of LaQuinta, Calif., had a great thrill yesterday, playing the second round with Arnold Palmer. Even though they had to shoot an 80 Friday to do it.

"It's just a wonderful experience to play with him," said Stubblefield, who recalled playing a practice round with Palmer 31 years ago in the Hawaiian Open at the Waialae Country Club. "There is only one Arnold Palmer. He is delightful, courteous and still competitive."

"That was the best treat of all," said Kaua'i's Dan Nishimoto, a bit envious of the two. Nishimoto shot his second straight 75 after making the turn at even par.

Dave Eichelberger turned in the best round of the four local players in the field yesterday, a 1-under 71 after getting on in two at both of the par-5s on the back nine (12 and 18) for easy two-putt birdies. He also rolled in a 20-footer for birdie at the par-4 14th.

"I was disappointed with my round (Friday). I couldn't make anything happen. At least with the one-under today I can make a move back up the field as far as I can with a round in the low 60s tomorrow," said Eichelberger, who plans on playing in 24 events on the Champions Tour this year despite living in Honolulu.

Stubblefield birdied the final hole to shoot a 75, while McClean bounced back from his opening 80 with a 1-over 73.

Stubblefield is impressed by the caliber of play he has seen this week.

"This is what they do, week in and week out. This is my one week. I wish I could play better."