RIO GRANDE, Puerto Rico — Carson YoungHis rookie season on PGA Tour was a success. He made three eagles to reach a 9-under 63 and gave him a three shot lead after the Puerto Rico Open.
Young has only made three cuts in 12 starts. The most recent was Sundays Honda Classic. He finished in a tie for 29th at PGA National, his best finish of season. The 28-year old South Carolina native found Grand Reserve to be a perfect fit.
He made two eagles at the front nine and then extended his lead on the par-5-15th with a third eagle by hitting 3-wood to 10 feet.
Young stated that he had 255 yards, straight into the wind, and trees in front of him. The wind was so strong, I decided to just hit this high, draw 3 wood over the trees, and it flushed. It was a very special shot.
Young led by three shots Max McGreevyAnd Akshay Bhatia, a 21-year-old who regularly plays the Korn Ferry Tour.
Young made his PGA Tour debut at the Puerto Rico Open two year ago, but missed the cut. However, he did have some experience. He also had 12 other starts on the tour, four of which were on courses that he hadn’t played before.
Young stated, At least I have seen this course, whereas on the West Coast swing it was several courses that Ive never been to and a bunch practice rounds. It was nice being on the East Coast with Bermuda grass, which Im used too.
Bill HaasAnd Scott Piercywere among the 67-player field, and were a former PGA champion Jason DufnerAt 68, he was a member of the group.
The Puerto Rico Open takes place opposite the Arnold Palmer Invitational. Here, every PGA Tour member in the top 50 world rankings is playing.
The winner will be granted a two year exemption on the PGA Tour as well as a spot in PGA Championship. It does not include a Masters invitation.
Ryan BrehmLast year, won and spent the last month playing in $20 Million tournaments at Phoenix Riviera and Bay Hill.
