2, Dec 2023
Qlik Leverages the power of AWS to Provide Immediate, Actionable Sustainability Through Data Analytics
LAS VEGAS/BENGALURU, India December 01, 2023 – During AWS re: Invent 2023, Qlik® articulates its vision in working with Amazon Web Services (AWS): a mission to help businesses actualize sustainability goals by fundamentally integrating sustainability into the realm of data analytics. By working with AWS, Qlik is crafting a novel pathway that is designed to harmonize technological advancement with imperative sustainability objectives.
“Data should be more than numbers and charts; it should drive sustainable action to achieve targets. By leveraging the power of AWS, we offer businesses the means to pivot from static reporting, to driving real-time, actionable sustainability strategies throughout the entire business,” says Julie Kae, VP of Sustainability and DE&I, Executive Director of Qlik.org.
1. Streamlining Data-Driven Sustainability: With Qlik’s superior data integration capabilities, businesses gain a transformative edge, enabling immediate, eco-conscious decisions that embed sustainability into every aspect of operations. A prime exemplification of this is the Marketing Event Sustainability App, utilized by Qlik itself and which runs on AWS, to meticulously measure and manage environmental, social and governance (ESG) and carbon dioxide (CO2) data for organizing carbon-neutral events.
2. Commitment to a Net-Zero Future: Qlik is committed to a sustainable future. When businesses integrate Qlik on AWS, they’re embracing advanced technology as well as an eco-responsible ethos.
3. Extending Global Impact: Qlik is making strides in addressing global challenges supporting entities like the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in tracking milestones towards the Paris Agreement and aiding the World Health Organization (WHO) in global health security initiatives underscoring the magnitude of their global contribution.
Qlik is an AWS Advanced Tier Services Partner. This designation is a testament to the robust and integrated product offerings available, ensuring businesses have access to tools that align technology with sustainability objectives.
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- By Rabindra
2, Dec 2023
Cabinet Note for National Policy on Deep Tech Startup Being Finalised by DPIIT: PSA Prof Ajay Kumar Sood
- Professor Sood, PSA Invites Industry to Partner with Government in Quantum Mission and National Research Foundation
- Lays Down Six Key Areas for Industry 4.0 & Technology Development for India Manufacturing
- FICCI Announces its 2nd Edition of Industry 4.0 Awards by Recognising 11 Best Practices in Digital Transformation Space
NEW DELHI, 02 December 2023: Addressing the 2nd edition of FICCI Industry 4.0 Awards, Professor Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor today said that a draft Cabinet note for Deep Tech Startup Policy is being prepared by DPIIT. He said that the deadline for comment on the draft policy was over and through this initiative, we are looking at significant changes in the policy for Deep tech startups. National Deep Tech Startup Policy serves as a comprehensive framework to address the challenges faced by deep tech startups and provide definitive policy interventions to enhance the ecosystem. The unveiling of the draft policy on Deep Tech Startups was a pivotal step toward fostering the growth and development of advanced technology startups, particularly in the realm of Industry 4.0. By focusing on deep tech, the policy aims to bolster innovation and R&D in sectors crucial to Industry 4.0, enabling these startups to spearhead transformative changes in manufacturing, healthcare, and beyond, added Professor Sood.
Professor Sood further said, “The Government of India recognizes the transformative potential of Industry 4.0 and is taking proactive steps to align our national policies with this new industrial paradigm. Initiatives like ‘Make in India’ and ‘Digital India’ are more than just campaigns; they are part of a strategic effort to position India as a hub of high-tech manufacturing and digital innovation. With the launching of Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) and Quantum Mission, we are investing in research and development, building bridges between academia and industry, and nurturing an environment where innovation can thrive. These initiatives are instrumental in creating the right ecosystem for Industry 4.0 to flourish in India, paving the way for a future that is both technologically advanced and economically robust.”
He also invited the industry to join hands with the government in its Quantum Mission and also in the recently established ‘Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF).
Prof Sood mentioned the following key areas namely ‘Skill and Capacity Development’, ‘Encourage knowledge transfer between academia and industry; and promote technology commercialization’, ‘Strengthen Digital Public Infrastructure’, ‘Establish industry standards for interoperability and compatibility’, ‘Develop agile and adaptive regulatory frameworks’, ‘Invest in Cybersecurity’ and ‘Enhance Data Governance’ are the focus areas where concerted efforts among stakeholders is needed to boost our preparedness and to build our competitiveness towards Industry 4.0.
Mr Subhrakant Panda, President, of FICCI, mentioned that it is a pivotal moment for the Indian economy, as the nation is not only eyeing remarkable growth but is also placing a strong emphasis on sustainable, resilient, and inclusive development. Undoubtedly, technology is poised to be the driving force behind this transformative journey. Acknowledging the pivotal role of technology in this transformative journey, Mr Panda emphasized the nation’s commitment to becoming the third-largest global economy within next few years. Highlighting the remarkable achievements of India in the technology space, he spotlighted India’s success in administering the world’s largest vaccination program, with over 2 billion doses of the COVID-19 vaccine delivered seamlessly, the use of digital certificates showcased India’s technological capabilities on a global scale. He applauded the government’s proactive stance, announcing specific initiatives to promote artificial intelligence (AI). Mr Panda also appreciated the focused efforts of the maturity assessment framework by the FICCI Industry 4.0 Committee.
Mr. Suprakash Chaudhuri, Chairman, FICCI Industry 4.0 Committee and Executive VP & Country Head, Digital Industries, Siemens Ltd. mentioned that we are mindful of our government’s emphasis on ‘vocal for local’ and FICCI Industry 4.0 Committee is helping businesses search for ways to resolve the predicament through local sourcing versus global sourcing, realigning supplier networks, ramping up inventories, etc.
Mr. Rajeev Singh, Co-Chair, FICCI Industry 4.0 Committee and Partner, Deloitte said, “Today, the industry stands as a testament to the successful integration of cutting-edge technologies and advanced manufacturing processes. India has emerged as a global hub for manufacturing, attracting the interest of nations from across the globe. The strategic blend of manufacturing excellence and technological prowess has positioned India as a preferred destination for nations looking to establish a manufacturing footprint.”
Mr KG Chandrasekhar, Co-Chair, FICCI Industry 4.0 Committee and Senior Vice President, of SAP Labs India said, “Special focus on emerging technologies, sustainability and operational excellence, underscores the pivotal role that Industry 4.0 technologies play in not only driving economic growth and competitiveness but also in shaping a future that is environmentally sustainable.”
2, Dec 2023
Nano Aerpod: India’s First Personal Air Purifier Addresses Air Pollution Concerns
Nano Aerpod, designed with the understanding that clean air is fundamental for human well-being, targets a diverse range of consumers, including commuters, outdoor enthusiasts, and individuals in industries facing high pollution levels. Founded in 2021 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, FLH Kleanair And Klean Energy, was born out of a commitment to address the vital link between clean air and human sustainability. Witnessing the global crisis firsthand, the founders resolved to create a platform dedicated to clean air solutions. Nano Aerpod marks the first-of-its-kind consumer Personal Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR) developed and manufactured in India, setting the stage for future advancements.
Clean air, a basic human necessity, contributes to enhanced overall health.
Nano Aerpod’s efficient medical grade HEPA filters, guarantees the removal of harmful particles, allergens, and pollutants, thereby promoting respiratory well-being. Breathing purified air has been linked to improved cardiovascular health, reduced respiratory issues, and heightened cognitive function.
FLH, with a vision for a cleaner and healthier future, is not stopping at Nano Aerpod.
The company is gearing up to launch four more consumer products, including India’s first personal air purifier helmets for riders and cyclists. These innovative helmets cater to a wide spectrum of industries such as mining, chemical, pharma, construction, welding, and fabrication. In a strategic collaboration with IIT, FLH is currently in the R&D stage for high-altitude and plateau applications, targeting Defence and Civil Defence Purposes.
Nano Aerpod marks the first-of-its-kind consumer Personal Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR) developed and manufactured in India, setting the stage for future advancements.
Targeted Applications:
Nano Aerpod is designed for versatile applications, catering to both indoor and outdoor environments. Its efficacy extends to industries and manufacturing units, chemical and fertilizer industries, individuals with respiratory complaints, traffic police, Toll Operators, Civil defence, hospitals, mining fields, construction sites, nucleic acid sampling stations, pharmaceutical and clean rooms, ensuring clean air in diverse settings.
Key Features and Advantages:
Wearable & Personal: Nano Aerpod is a HEPA-filter-equipped wearable device providing optimal protection against viruses and bacteria.
Advanced Filtration: H13 filter with a filtration efficiency of 99.9%, surpassing N95 mask standards.
Long-lasting: Rechargeable batteries ensure extended use, with easy sterilization for added convenience.
Comfortable Design: Engineered for comfort, the device boasts an adjustable wind speed system for personalized use.
IoT-Enabled Future Products: FLH Kleanair plans to launch a line of IoT-enabled consumer products, showcasing its commitment to continuous innovation.
Future Product Lines:
In 2023, FLH Kleanair secured incubation with IITM, reflecting its dedication to cutting-edge technology. The startup is actively working on high-altitude and plateau applications for defense purposes, currently in the R&D stage. Future product lines include personal air purifier helmets for riders, cyclists, and fitness enthusiasts who face daily exposure to polluted air.
Certifications and Standards:
Nano Aerpod holds various certifications, including ISO 9001-2015, CE, EMC (Medical grade test), Make in India, and Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification (STQC) Directorate Gov of India. It complies with IEC 60601-1 for Medical Electrical Equipment.
Nano Aerpod represents a significant leap towards a cleaner and healthier future, offering a portable and efficient solution to combat air pollution. With its innovative design and advanced features, Nano Aerpod is set to redefine personal air purification in India.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Nano Aerpod – India’s first Personal Air Purifier – Available currently in amazon.in & jiomart Pan India delivery.
FLH Kleanair And Klean Energy India Pvt Ltd
Wecare@aerpod.in
www.aerpod.in
2, Dec 2023
Mumbai property registrations surge 8% YoY in November 2023
· 9713 units registered in November 2023 against 8965 units in November 2022
· Highest registration numbers for November in the past 11 years
According to data from the Department of Registration and Stamps, Government of Maharashtra, the registration of properties in the Mumbai Municipal region rose 8% annually to 9713 units in the month of November 2023 contributing a revenue of over Rs. 711 crores to the State exchequer, against 8965 units that were registered in November last year. However, the registration numbers were less than October 2023 where 10,607 units were registered.
As per Knight Frank, the city recorded the best November registration numbers in 11 years. Of the overall registered properties in November 2023, residential units constituted 80 percent, and the remaining 20 percent constituted non-residential assets.
Here is what real estate developers have to say on these robust numbers:
Mr. Sandeep Runwal – President, NAREDCO Maharashtra
“The robust response from homebuyers during the month of Diwali indicates positive sentiments towards home ownership. The homebuyers have taken the opportunity of the best pricing and various offers provided by the developers during the festive season. Based on the leads generated during our recent HOMETHON property expo, we can certainly see a strong sales momentum till the end of this year.”Mr. Pritam Chivukula – Vice President, CREDAI-MCHI and Co-Founder & Director, Tridhaatu Realty
“The Mumbai housing market has once again seen exceptional home sales during the recent festive season. The positive market sentiments witnessed during the festive season coupled with the rise in aspirations and income levels did fuel the housing demand among homebuyers propelling home sales. We expect the housing demand to remain strong going into the New Year.”Mr. Rohan Khatau, Director, CCI Projects
“We have seen a phenomenal response from home buyers during the current festive season. There has been a realization among home buyers on the importance of home ownership. Among other areas, the western suburb is seeing a huge housing demand. This comes on the back of improved connectivity and enhanced convenience factor that is instrumental in home buyer preference towards the western suburbs of Mumbai.”Mr. Prashant Khandelwal, CEO – Agami
“We are seeing the Mumbai housing market peak in terms of home sales. The current festive season has given an impetus to this growing housing demand due to attractive pricing, discounts and home loan offers valid for the festive period only. The upgrade in infrastructure projects has improved connectivity in Mumbai and MMR region. This has excited home buyers who are now going ahead and buying their desired home in far flung suburbs which are reasonably priced and within their budget.”
2, Dec 2023
The 6th edition of the luxury interiors design show D/code 2023
Times Group announces the 6th edition of D/code, with 9 curators and collaborations with 30+ designers showcasing the future of luxury interior design
National, 02nd December 2023: India’s finest luxury interior design show, D/code 2023, a Times Group initiative is back with its 6th edition, promising a more captivating show than ever before. The event is being held on 1st & 2nd December from 11.00 am – 07.00 pm at the Dome, SVP Stadium, Mumbai. As the country’s first curated luxury interior design show, the latest edition of D/code 2023 brings a bigger and better show with 9 curators onboard along with 30+ designers, architects, artists, artisans, craftsmen, product designers, design, and students all under one roof. With the theme ‘Future,’ the show promises an intuitive, smart, and sustainable design experience, bringing the future of luxury design.
Offering an extraordinary display of luxury living, this year, the show takes it a notch higher through an experiential journey with four escape rooms such as The Design Classroom and escape rooms curated by Chandni Mathur and Nikhil Kapur, Sravanya Rao Pitte, Hameeda, and Aamir Sharma. In addition, themed installations by architect Ronak Hingarh called ‘DEEP JYOTI STAMBH’ and design students from Pearl Academy and Rachana Sansad College of Applied Art and Craft are on display. The central lounge is adorned with the work of renowned architect and artist Ashiesh Shah, whose collection 21 STAMBHS explores diverse materials – from metals to stone, wood, and more. Exchanging ideas and sparking much-needed conversation around the business of design, the show engages in power talks and panel discussions. The esteemed curators for the event include Hameeda and Aamir Sharma, Maithili Raut, Ekta and Rajiv Parekh, Annkur Khosla, Pooja Bihani, Vaishali Kamdar and Deepak Gugarii. Moreover, with over 60+ decor brands, the latest in global furniture, retail brands, home decor, art galleries, antiques, flooring,
lighting, ateliers, etc. are showcased.
Ronitaa R. Italia, Editor in Chief, of GoodHomes and Home & Design Trends, says, “It is my pleasure to bring to you the sixth edition of D/code, quite literally the country’s first and (dare I say so myself) finest curated, luxury interiors show. I consider this edition a curtain raiser to the future of design shows in our country. This time around, we’ve taken our curatorial bonds to the next level with not one or two, but nine curators. You see, the ultimate goal is to create a show that my architects and designers enjoy spending time and feel at home. And that can be achieved only when we flip the lid and make them tell us what works (and what doesn’t) for them.”
2, Dec 2023
Genpact Works with AWS and Amazon Business to Redefine Insurance Claims Lifecycle
Genpact’s advanced pricing automation workflow integrates generative AI to accelerate claims submission process from weeks to days
NEW DELHI, December 2, 2023 – Genpact (NYSE: G), a global professional services firm focused on delivering outcomes that transform businesses, announced it is working with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Amazon Business to introduce a transformed approach to property loss replacement and claims management.
Genpact is leveraging its extensive claims management expertise as well as Amazon Bedrock generative AI capabilities and Amazon Business procurement API integrations, including pricing information, to reduce the claims submission process from weeks to days. This initiative is streamlining replacement item identification and enabling more efficient and timely delivery of policyholder estimates. Amazon Bedrock is a fully managed service that provides access to foundation models (FMs) from leading AI companies through an application programming interface (API) to build and scale generative AI applications.
“AI is fundamentally reshaping the landscape of the insurance industry,” said Sameer Dewan, Global Operating Officer, Genpact. “Our Genpact AI-driven automated pricing workflow, powered by AWS, is transforming the research, significantly reducing the time adjusters spend investigating by as much as 75 percent. By automating routine tasks and enhancing decision making, our AI solution is empowering smarter pricing decisions, expediting
claims settlements, and bringing about a profound transformation in the customer experience.”
Genpact is committed to delivering measurable value to its clients through ongoing innovation. In the future, the company plans to integrate additional AI services into the automated workflow to introduce enhanced features. These include real-time summaries of market values for claimed contents and optimal action recommendations for further processing.
2, Dec 2023
Pradeep Rathnam Elected Chair and Timmana Gouda Co-Chair of IAMAI’s New Agritech Committee
New Delhi, December 2, 2023: Pradeep Rathnam, Fintech Head, Ninjacart, has been elected the Chairman of the newly formed Agritech Committee, which represents the agritech industry members of the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI). Timmana Gouda, Founder and CEO, of Whatsloan, has been elected the Co-chair.
“As I step into the role of Chair of IAMAI’s Agritech Committee, I am excited about the immense potential this platform holds to drive collective efforts in addressing the complexities of our agricultural landscape. I am committed to infusing a collaborative approach focusing into our tech initiatives, ultimately creating inclusive access, and advocating for robust public policies. As a banker for more than two decades, I am personally looking forward to contributing to the fintech developments in the agri value chain.
“Speaking as an employee for an agritech giant, Ninjacart, I know that my efforts as Chair will all be about democratizing technology and propelling the development and maturity of India’s digital agri ecosystem. My tenure as Chair aims to spotlight the industry’s contributions, addressing its challenges head-on, as the growth of resilient companies is integral to both the ecosystem and the nation’s progress,” said Pradeep Rathnam.
Timmana Gouda, said “as a career banker, I am happy to join, as Co-chair of the Agritech Committee under IAMAI with a vision to bring agritechs and fintechs together with the ‘Agrifintech Charter’ to work with agritechs, fintechs, banks, lenders, agri and other ecosystem players to meet Indian government objective of doubling farmers income by reducing their costs and increasing their productivity and incomes.”
The Indian agriculture sector is estimated to be worth $493 bn. The gross merchandise value (GMV) of the agritech sector in the country was around $4 Bn in 2022 and is expected to reach $37 Bn by 2027. The sector has also seen a significant spurt in investment recently, with over 250 agritech companies funded with 63% funding coming over the past two years.
In this context, the agritech committee was formed under the aegis of IAMAI with a broad vision of providing a platform for all agritech stakeholders to collectively work towards the realization of the faster adoption of agritech services in India by the farmers, increase public awareness about agritech and its potential benefits, and developing a vibrant agritech ecosystem in India with focus on Indian agritech start-ups.
In the coming years, the key aims and objectives of the committee are to develop a vibrant policy and regulatory framework for agritech in India, build synergies between various stakeholders to develop a unified agritech cohort, promulgate adoption of best agritech solutions in the Indian context, and provide technology-led thought leadership to relevant stakeholders and decision-makers.
2, Dec 2023
International SOS opens new office in New Delhi
Mumbai, 02 December – In an exciting move that marks a significant milestone for International SOS India, the leading global health and security services company, unveiled its brand new office and assistance center in New Delhi. The new office, strategically located at the heart of Jasola, is set to serve as a hub for International SOS India’s continued growth and expansion. The new facility is specially designed to support the International SOS client-centric approach, helping companies and governments mitigate medical and security risks faced by their employees deployed abroad.
The site will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, providing fully integrated medical and security services and assistance to clients around the world. This center will complement their already existing offices in India and will take the overall employee strength to 500+ for the International SOS group of companies.
Mr Jing Tan, Regional General Manager & Director, of Southeast Asia at International SOS, said “International SOS’s expanded presence reflects the capital’s position as a major hub for business served by a strong and growing services sector. India continues to attract inward investment from around the world and International SOS’s new office is a further testament to India’s growing position in the global marketplace. As we celebrate our 25 years of service in India, this office signifies not only our presence in this vibrant city but also our commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration among our talented team.”
India is a key location for International SOS, as it is the selected base of many client organizations. It is a strategic base from which to recruit a diverse and skilled pool of specialists, as an increasing number of medical and security teams are needed to help client businesses proactively assess and manage the risks that their global workforce faces. India is also a Centre of Excellence (COE) internally for certain functions in the International SOS Group and also serves as the headquarters for the Indian Subcontinent.
Mr Neeraj Balani, Managing Director, International SOS, India, commented “Increasing globalization has enabled many Indian organizations to send employees abroad, often to challenging locations. Indian organizations are also more aware of their duty of care responsibilities. We are investing in this new office and assistance center to further extend our ability to proactively manage the risks faced by our clients’ globally deployed and local employees.
Our robust growth from 100 colleagues to over 500 within the International SOS group of companies over the last five years stands as a testament to the escalating demand for our services in the country. International SOS’ India Assistance Center is a global hub for coordinating medical, security, and travel advice services across time zones and regions. It is also a key lead center for integrated medical and security crisis response when employees of our customers are faced with medical or security incidents including health issues, accidents, political unrest, natural disasters or pandemics, while at work. The India team is very experienced in carrying out thousands of interventions and evacuations each year. With this new office launch, International SOS India is poised to embrace the future with confidence, armed with an exceptional team, a commitment to innovation, and the drive to ensure the health and well-being of organizations in the nation.
2, Dec 2023
SBICAPS and Habitat for Humanity India refurbish public health centres in Palghar, Maharashtra
Mumbai,2nd December 2023: Habitat for Humanity India, the leading housing non-profit organisation, in partnership with SBI Capital Markets Limited (SBICAPS) – India’s leading investment bank – is proud to announce the successful completion and handover of four refurbished healthcare centres in Dahanu block of Palghar district, Maharashtra. The healthcare centres were handed over to the district medical authorities on 1 st December 2023 in the presence of Shri Rajay Sinha – Managing Director and CEO, SBICAPS; Mr. Shesh Ram Verma – President and Chief Operating Officer, SBICAPS; Mr. Krishnan Kutty – Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, SBICAPS; Mr. Roshan Negi – Head, Corporate Communication and CSR, SBICAPS; Dr Vijay Thakkar – Medical
Officer, Malwada Primary Health Centre; Dr Mahendra Navare – Medical Officer, Dabhadi Dispensary; and Dr Nitin Gosavi, Medical Officer, Chalani Dispensary. They were joined by the local community and Habitat India’s programmes team.
The project involved repairing and refurbishing the Primary Health Centre of Malwada, the sub-centre of Ranshet, and the dispensaries of Dabhadi and Chalani. These centres will serve over 71,000 individuals and provide essential healthcare services to the local community. The repair and refurbishment work included external and internal plastering, painting, improved sanitation units as well as overall plumbing, roofing, and electrical work.
Commenting on the partnership, James Samuel, National Director (Interim), Habitat for Humanity India said, “We are excited to partner with SBI Capital Markets to build improved healthcare centres in Palghar. The refurbished infrastructure will help the medical team perform their duties in healthier working conditions and will enable them to provide their services to low-income families in the region efficiently. Habitat for Humanity India is committed to put people at the centre of its work.”
SBICAPS has been supporting several social initiatives across healthcare, education, environment, poverty alleviation, child development, vocational training and women empowerment, actively pursuing and endorsing community improvement efforts in varying capacities, across India under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme. Over the past few years, the ‘upgradation of primary healthcare facilities’ has been one of the flagship initiatives under SBICAPS’ CSR programme, considering the impact of the COVID pandemic. The Company has been working towards making basic healthcare facilities accessible to all, allocating a substantial amount of CSR funds to this initiative and over the past 3 years, it has supported 15 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHC) and 1 Community Healthcare centre across various districts of Maharashtra, in its bid to strengthen the primary health care system and addresses the health and well-being of all sections of society.
2, Dec 2023
Harman and Finau share the lead at Hero World Challenge, Woods holds on despite late struggle
Bengaluru, December 2, 2023: The Open champion, Brian Harman, made a strong debut at the Hero World Challenge. First off the blocks, he came back with a 5-under 67, which was matched by Tony Finau. The two were co-leaders after the first day.
Playing for the first time in almost eight months since the end of the second round of the Augusta National, Woods admitted to ‘soreness’ all over after his 3-over 75. For the first 14 holes, he was still in red numbers at 1-under. Then came trouble and he crashed to 3-over. Yet, he seemed to have seen a few things to work on and get better with each step, which at times indicated a limp.
Considering all he has been through, he showed enough to suggest a good meaningful comeback. Jostling for attention with the flashes of class was lot of rust and signs that the mind and the body were not in sync. He seemed to tire and struggle in the closing stages, but still smiled and hugged Justin Thomas at the end of 18 holes in conditions that were not very easy.
Harman may not have found many greens, but he scrambled really well. He said, “Yeah, I think it’s a really tough golf course. The wind was blowing. I got out of position a few times, made some really nice up-and-downs. I’m going to go hit a few, see if I can tighten my iron game up a little bit. Putted nicely other than the bogey on the last, pretty good.”
On his scrambling, he said, “Last time I played the RSM, my short game wasn’t very good, so I worked a little bit on it in the couple weeks. Glad that I chipped a couple close.”
Finau made gains on the first and the third holes, but gave one of them on the tenth. Then in a span of five holes, he picked four birdies to surge to the top.
He said, “That was a nice start. I made some crucial par saves, I would say. I made a lot of six, seven footers whether it was after a chip or a bad first putt. That just kind of kept the momentum throughout the round.”
Jordan Spieth rode a roller-coaster with two eagles, six birdies, four bogeys and a double bogey. His final tally of 4-under put him one behind Harman and Finau.
Woods was doing fine, but following up on each of his birdies with an immediate bogey. That happened three times but a fourth birdie on the 14th had him at 1-under for the fourth time. He was never better than 1-under, but still under par after 14. Then a double bogey on the Par-5 15th and two more bogeys on the next two holes. He closed with a birdie try from 25 feet and then tapped for par.
Woods gave away four shots in a span of three holes, starting the 15th. A wayward left tee shot landed under a large clump of bushes. He stabbed at it and moved it only a foot and lost a shot. He even toyed with the idea of a left-handed attempt but then punched it backwards into the fairway.
The third shot, a 3-wood, came short and an average pitch left him a 12-foot bogey putt, which he missed for a double-bogey. From one-under he went to 1-over. On 16 he missed the green in regulation and missed a 20-footer for par and on the Par-3 17th, he found the green, but was 50-plus feet away for. He went six feet past and missed the comeback putt.
The obvious question was about how he felt after the round? And, where did he feel sore? Woods shot back, “Everywhere”.
The persistent question, Where is the most? “My leg, my back, my neck. Just from playing, hitting shots and trying to hold off shots. It’s just different at game speed, too.”
He said, “I’m sore, there’s no doubt about that. We’ve got some work to do tonight. Tomorrow (we) get back in the gym and activate and get ready for it. Hopefully hit some better shots. And now I know mentally what I need to do better. I think that’s something that physically I knew I was going to be OK. Mentally, I was really rusty and made a lot of errors in the mind that normally I don’t make.”
Overall, summing up, he said, “Yeah, you know, I got off to a decent start. I didn’t play the par 5s particularly well all day. I had really a lack of commitment through most of the middle part of my round and finishing. I just didn’t quite commit to what I was doing and feeling.” Woods’ playing partner and friend, Justin Thomas, got a big hug at the end of the round, in which Thomas rallied from 3-over after four to finish 2-under. Spieth describing his round said, “Yeah, it was an electric factory out there, for sure. Some rusty putting, a couple toe balls and then a lot of really, really good stuff. So all in all I would have probably signed for 4 under when I was warming up today, I just didn’t think I’d get there this way.” He had just five pars in 18 holes.
Cameron Young, Scottie Scheffler, Collin Morikawa and max Homa brought in 3-under 69 each for tied fourth. Both had eventful rounds. Young had six birdies against one bogey and one double, while Scheffler, trying to better his second place finishes in the last two editions, had six birdies and three bogeys, as did Homa and Morikawa.
Two-time defending champion Viktor Hovland had three birdies in a row from fifth and a fourth one on 14th, but he also gave away three bogeys and a double on Par-3 17th for a 73. It was his first round above 70 in the Hero World Challenge, which he has won in both his previous starts.
ROUND 2 PAIRINGS: From Tee 1:
10:51 am: Wyndham Clark (76) and Will Zalatoris (81)
11:02 am: Rickie Fowler (74) and Tiger Woods (75);
11:13 am: Justin Rose (72) and Viktor Hovland (73);
11:24 am: Sepp Straka (72) and Keegan Bradley (72);
11:35 am: Sam Burns (71) and Jason Day (71);
11:46 am: Justin Thomas (70) and Lucas Glover (71);
11:57 am: Max Homa (69) and Matt Fitzpatrick (70);
12:08 am: Scottie Scheffler (69) and Collin Morikawa (69);
12:19 am: Jordan Spieth (68) and Cameron Young (69);
12:30: Brian Harman (67) and Tony Finau (67)
