Hunter Mahan, Keegan Bradley early leaders at World Challenge

Hunter Mahan took the early lead Thursday in the opening round of the World Challenge golf tournament in Thousand Oaks.

Mahan, a two-time winner on the PGA Tour this season, was three under par through eight holes at the par-72 Sherwood Country Club.

Keegan Bradley was one shot behind Mahan and several other players followed at one under par, including Tiger Woods, the tournament’s host and defending winner.

The World Challenge, an 18-player event that benefits Woods’ charities, has a $4-million purse that includes $1 million to the winner.

The flamboyant Rickie Fowler, known for his color-coordinated attire, got off to a terrible start with a triple bogey at the par-three third hole.

But Fowler rebounded with birdies at No. 5 and No. 7 and was two over par overall through eight holes.

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