Chris Wood of England has taken a significant lead at the 54-hole $100,000 Rolear Algarve Classic, maintaining a strong performance with a second consecutive bogey-free round. He finished the third round with a four-under-par 68 at the Amendoeira Golf Resort’s O’Connor Course, putting him at 11 under par.
Wood’s impressive showing included birdies on holes two, nine, 11, and 16, showcasing his skill and precision throughout the day. The three-time DP World Tour winner is now aiming for his first title on the MENA Golf Tour.
Reflecting on his performance, Wood noted, “I didn’t drop a shot all day. It was a bit harder today, though.” He acknowledged that while he felt less sharp mentally compared to the previous day, his caddie Chris Lloyd was instrumental in providing support through open discussions about the game, which helped manage challenges during the round.
Lloyd, who also hails from Bristol, had a promising golfing career cut short due to injury but now plays a crucial role in Wood’s journey. Wood emphasized their long-standing relationship, stating, “It’s great to have someone as encouraging as him, but also someone you can call a friend as well.”
During the round, Wood faced tougher playing conditions, particularly towards the end. “Playing 16 and 17 today was challenging, playing straight into the sun,” he said, highlighting the difficulties golfers encounter in varying weather conditions.
Chasing Wood closely is Scotland’s Aidan O’Hagan, sitting one shot back at 10 under after posting a three-under 69. His round featured four birdies, with his sole blemish at the par-5 fifth. The young golfer expressed that relaxation allows him to play his best, acknowledging that tension can hinder performance.
A potential victory for O’Hagan could significantly impact his future schedule. “It would guarantee going to Egypt and continuing to play golf for the winter,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of such opportunities in his budding career.
Ireland’s Max Kennedy remains in the hunt in third place at eight under following a solid three-under 69. Kennedy has shown remarkable consistency throughout the tournament, with only one bogey across 36 holes, indicating his grasp of the course and competition.
“It’s great – any competition is great,” Kennedy noted, valuing the strong field of players, including former DP World Tour professionals. Competing against top talent is an essential experience for him.
First-round co-leader Aron Zemmer fell to a share of fourth after an even-par 72, joining Portugal’s Pedro Lencart at seven under. Meanwhile, Scotland’s Sebastian Sandin moved into a tie for sixth with a five-under 67, matching the performance of Portugal’s Vasco Alves, who had the best round of the day with a bogey-free seven-under 65.
Ahmad Skaik from the UAE managed to make the cut in only his second professional event, carding a second consecutive 74. Adjusting from a decorated amateur career, he stated, “I’m just staying in the present and keeping fighting,” despite ongoing challenges with his health.
With the final round set to be an exciting showdown, Wood leads by just one shot, with ten players within five strokes of him. The outcome will not only determine the tournament winner but will also award a substantial prize of $18,000, along with valuable points for the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR).
Round Two Leading Scores (Par 72):
C. Wood (Eng) 65, 68 – 133
A. O’Hagan (Scot) 65, 69 – 134
M. Kennedy (Ire) 67, 69 – 136