Lotte Championship: LPGA giants seize top spots after third round
The LPGA Lotte Championship being played at Ko Olina Golf Club, Hawaii, is entering into its fourth round, with most of the LPGA giants seizing the top positions on the leaderboard.
Ai Miyazato of Japan is standing at the top spot after she posted an impressive 70 in the third round. The Japanese star played surprisingly well throughout the three rounds, as she managed to grab the lead from the second round.
Starting the $1.7 million tournament in a decent style, Miyazato stood tied for the 12th at the end of the first round. Beth Bader, who is considered as a lesser-known player in the fearsome roster, surprised spectators after taking an early lead.
Having racked up seven triumphs on the LPGA (Ladies Professional Golf Association) Tour, Miyazato currently ranks 8th in the Women’s World Golf Rankings.
On the other hand, world number four Cristie Kerr displayed a balanced game. Kerr was standing tied for the 6th at the end of the first round, but boosted her position to settle for the 2nd at the end of the third day.
"I think I played pretty solid," American said. "I had some putts on the front that I misread. I thought it played a little tougher today where the pins were and the way the wind was a little different angle and a little stronger".
Kerr was spectacular in the second round, as she posted a 68, with no bogey and four birdies. Although the weather conditions caused havoc on some holes, the player moved ahead by making sensible strokes.
Yani Tseng, who topped the list of hot favourite contenders at the LPGA Lotte Championship, picked up pace after the first round. She currently stands tied for the fourth spot.
The Taiwanese star kicked off the third round with her trademark style, as she posted a 69. Analysts said that the way Tseng rebounded after the opening day has triggered fear in her rivals.
She received massive applause when she reeled off back-to-back birdies on the first two holes. The top-ranked golfer registered five birdies and two bogeys.
Speaking to the media about her solid performance, Tseng said that she looked forward to further improving her position on the leaderboard.
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