PALM HARBOR, Fla. - Keith Mitchell showcased a remarkable performance at the Valspar Championship, securing a two-shot lead with a spectacular eagle on the 18th hole. Mitchell's 7-iron approach shot from the fairway bounced into the hole, propelling him to a 5-under round and a total score of 10-under 203.
The tournament at Innisbrook proved to be tightly contested, with all 77 players who made the cut separated by just six shots initially. Mitchell's exceptional play on the challenging Copperhead course set him apart, becoming the first player in tournament history to go 3-2-2 through the closing stretch.
Despite facing stiff competition, Mitchell's birdie on the 16th hole, followed by a close-range birdie on the par-3 17th, set the stage for his remarkable eagle finish on the 18th. A stroke of luck accompanied his final shot, as he was momentarily distracted by something in his eye and missed seeing the ball drop into the hole.
While Mitchell surged into the lead, other contenders faced setbacks. Stewart Cink, who started the round tied for the lead, faltered with a 41 on the back nine, dropping nine shots behind. Justin Thomas also struggled, carding a 79 with 38 putts.
The leaderboard remained crowded, with Mackenzie Hughes, Seamus Power, and Peter Malnati trailing Mitchell by two shots. The unpredictable nature of the tournament was evident as positions shifted rapidly, keeping the competition intense.
Chandler Phillips and Cameron Young stayed in contention, showcasing moments of brilliance amidst the challenging course conditions. Young's eagle on the seventh hole revitalized his round, emphasizing the course's potential for dramatic turnarounds.
As the tournament heads into the final round, the field remains tightly packed, offering opportunities for players to make significant moves with strategic play. The unpredictable nature of Innisbrook promises an exciting finish, with multiple players still in the hunt for the title.
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