Haas hopes to climb money list

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- One look at the leaderboard Thursday in the Funai Classic made it abundantly clear who had work on their mind at Disney's sprawling amusement Mecca, with no greater example than Hunter Haas.

Headed to the second stage of qualifying school unless he can quickly change his fortunes, Haas shot a 9-under 63 on the easier Palm Course, his career low on the PGA Tour, to take a one-shot lead in the first round over a group of players who also have a lot riding on this week.

Among those at 64 were Ryan Moore, the former U.S. Amateur champion who is trying to become the first player since Tiger Woods to skip Q-school and go straight from college to a job on the PGA Tour. Moore needs to finish the equivalent of No. 125 on the money list, and now is at No. 121.

He was joined by Mark Calcavecchia, who feels far less pressure because he's No. 27 on the money list and is trying only to get into the Tour Championship.

On a steamy day across the street from the Magic Kingdom, they all took advantage of calm conditions and being on the Palm course, which played more than two shots easier than the longer, tougher Magnolia.

"It's a grind out here," Haas said. "I wish I'd have a million dollars in the bank and have my card locked up and just be out there playing, trying to make some more money or get a victory. Sometimes, things work out in funny ways. Maybe this is the week."