Chaotic Winds Create Putting Drama at Victorian PGA Championship
Strong winds created chaos during the third round of the Victorian PGA Championship at Moonah Links, most notably affecting player Cory Crawford's crucial birdie putt on the 17th hole.
White golf ball on putting green
Crawford, who was just one shot behind the leader and looking to tie for the lead, watched helplessly as his well-judged putt was caught by 25mph gusts. The ball not only missed the hole but continued rolling until it reached the edge of the green, leading to an eventual bogey that dropped him two shots off the lead.
Golfer swinging club on course
Despite the challenging conditions, rookie Jye Picken managed to shoot a 68, sharing the overnight lead with Jason Hong. Picken embraced the difficult weather, stating, "I like playing in wind. Playing in the wind and even the rain to a certain point keeps me present."
The tournament, following the prestigious ISPS Handa Australian Open, saw many top players, including Joaquin Niemann and Cameron Smith, opt to compete in the Saudi International instead. However, the extreme weather conditions have made this event memorable in its own right, with Crawford and others hoping for calmer conditions in the final round.