YUKA Saso fired a 68 yesterday (Saturday in the US) to wheel back in strong contention at fifth place after the third round of the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions at the Lake Nona Golf and Country Club course In Orlando, Florida.
Brandishing a red-hot putter, Saso gunned down five birdies against a single bogey over the par-72, 6,617-yard layout, boosting her chances of capturing the crown and the top prize of $225,000 (around P11.5 million) in the event featuring an elite cast of 29 golfers, all former US LPGA champs.
Seeing action as Japanese in a pro tournament for the first time, the 2018 Asian Games double gold medalist had a three-round tally of 206, three shots behind American Tokyo Olympic Games gold medalist Nelly Korda, who clung to a one-stroke lead after shooting a 69.
Korda, whose elder sister Jessica is the defending champion, was ahead by one shot with a 203 total over compatriot Danielle Kang and Mexican Gaby Lopez, who shared second place after also shooting identical 69s.
