Madeira Islands Open reduced to 36 holes

Associated Press

SANTO DA SERRA, Madeira Islands (AP) — The Madeira Islands Open has been reduced to 36 holes after persistent fog caused more delays on Saturday.

Organizers had already cut the tournament to 54 holes after the thick fog that has shrouded the Santo da Serra course forced play to be completely abandoned on Thursday and caused long delays on Friday.

Only half the field had completed their first rounds when play was suspended Friday and the fog caused another delay shortly after the restart on Saturday.

It is the first time since the inaugural Nelson Mandela Championship in 2012 that a European Tour event is reduced to 36 holes.

Scott Henry of Scotland held a one-shot clubhouse lead after a 5-under 67 on Friday.