Todd Clements leads the Corales Puntacana Championship at 18-under 198 heading into the final round, maintaining a two-stroke lead despite high winds in the Dominican Republic. According to the Associated Press, Clements is pursuing a wire-to-wire victory, currently holding off a field that includes Ben James and Special Temporary Member Blades Brown.
The Path to the Lead at Corales Puntacana
Englishman Todd Clements navigated gusts reaching 25 mph to card a 5-under 67 during the third round. The 29-year-old, who secured his lone DP World Tour victory at the 2023 Czech Masters, is one of 50 DP World Tour players participating in this co-sanctioned event. The tournament is held opposite The Open Championship.
“There’s a lot of golf left to go,” Clements told the Associated Press. “I had my fair share of luck a little bit out there this week and that needs to continue for that to happen.”
Pro Tip: Playing in high-wind conditions requires a focus on ball flight control.
Emerging Talent: Ben James and Blades Brown
The leaderboard features significant pressure from younger competitors. Ben James, a former Virginia star, sits two strokes back after shooting a 67 in the third round. James is currently competing in only his fifth professional start, having earned his spot on the tour through the PGA TOUR University Ranking.
Blades Brown, a 19-year-old playing as a Special Temporary Member of the PGA TOUR, remains in contention at 13-under. Brown’s third round was highlighted by a chip-in from 85 feet for eagle on the par-5 seventh hole. “I’m playing a lot of weeks on the road and I’m learning my recipe for success,” Brown said regarding his development as a professional.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do players qualify for the Corales Puntacana Championship?
What impact does wind have on scoring at this venue?
Coastal courses like those in Puntacana are highly susceptible to wind.
What is a Special Temporary Member?
Follow the final round action of the Corales Puntacana Championship to see if Todd Clements can secure his wire-to-wire win. Have a question about the tournament standings? Leave a comment below or subscribe to our newsletter for daily professional golf updates.
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