Czech Republic golfer Jiri Janda will take a seven-shot lead going into the final round of the All Abilities Championship where the leading 6 golfers will lead the New Zealand Open field off at Millbrook Resort on Sunday.
After the first round of play was cancelled due to strong winds on Friday, the event was reduced to 36-holes with the cut made after 18 holes on Saturday.
Ranked number 3 in the World Ranking for Golfers with Disability, Janda will join Kiwi hopefuls Parker Aluesi, Jason Eade, Gary Brocket and Australians Geoffrey Nicholas, Damien Thomlinson, in a morning they’ll remember for the rest of their lives at Millbrook Resort, but they’ll be chasing Janda in their quest in making some history of their own.
Aluesi, the leading New Zealander is seven shots back, and after the 36 holes yesterday said he’s looking forward to what lies ahead, after a round of 10-over on Saturday.
“Today was great. I started really well with a birdie at the first and well really well in patches throughout the round,” Aluesi said.
“There were a few tough pins out there today, and I certainly learned a bit from today’s round for the finale tomorrow morning.”
He’ll need to chase down Czechian Janda tomorrow to keep the trophy on home soil, but he’s also not forgetting the opportunity just to be playing as part of the New Zealand Open doesn’t come around every day.
“Everyone is going to be nervous tomorrow at such a special occasion.
“I just need to stick to the game plan, hit the middle of the greens, and recognise that par is going to be a good score; especially on a course that is set up for some of the world’s best professionals.”
