During the first round of the Cognizant Classic, Ryan Gerard's tee shot on the par-3 seventh hole struck a bird immediately after impact. Remarkably, the ball still managed to find the putting surface.

Gerard arrived at PGA National as a betting favorite, having started the season strongly with several high finishes. However, he found himself 2-over par through his first 11 holes on Thursday.

With plenty of golf remaining, Gerard will look to continue his streak of made cuts this season. Tournament reports indicate the bird involved in the incident was unharmed.