SYLVANIA, Ohio — Chanettee Wannasaen closed birdie-eagle on Highland Meadows’ twin par-5 finishing holes for a 6-under 66 and a one-stroke lead Friday in the Dana Open for Children.
Wannasae set up the eagle putt on 18 with a 3-wood from 260 yards to 1 1/2 feet.
“I hit a really good shot on that hole,” said Wannasaen, the Portland Classic winner last year. “The back nine, I played really well. The putter was really good on the back nine.”
The 20-year-old Thai player took an 11-under 131 total into the weekend. Defending champion Linn Grant of Sweden was a shot back with playing partner Xiyu “Janet” Lin of China.
Lexi Thompson capped Lexi Thompson Day at the tournament by making the cut, shooting a 69 after a flyover and emotional opening ceremony. She has said this will be her final season playing a full schedule.
“Very honoured and so amazing to see all the great fans around the first hole and then the flyover,” Thompson said. “That was incredible. Having to say a few words after that was pretty emotional.”
Grant shot 65.
“I tried to play very aggressive,” Grant said. “I felt after yesterday that I really had some good game going and hit some great shots. So, felt like I could really go out and be aggressive. Some holes that didn’t really pay off, but that’s golf.”
Lin had a 67. She’s the highest-ranked player in the field at No. 15.
“I’ve been here for so many years.” Lin said. “This is one the stops I almost play every year. Obviously, very experienced. I think this course overall, it’s really like suits my eye and it’s all about putting for me.”
Mary Liu of China was 9 under after a 65.
Alena Sharp of Hamilton, Ont., shot a 68 on Friday and is tied for 26th at 3 under. Maude-Aimee LeBlanc of Sherbrooke, Que., and Maddie Szeryk of London, Ont., are both tied for 65th at 1 under.
First-round leader Hye-Jin Choi followed her opening 64 with a 71 to drop into a tie for fifth at 7 under. Mao Saigo (67), Haeran Ryu (68), Paula Reto (69) and Sarah Kemp (67) also were 7 under.
Stacy Lewis, the 39-year-old Texan who was born in nearby Toledo, was 5 under after a 70. She won the last of her 13 LPGA Tour titles in 2020.
In a thrilling turn of events at the Dana Open, golfer Wannasaen delivered a strong finish to take a one-shot lead heading into the final round of the tournament. The Thai player showcased her skills and determination on the course, making crucial shots and sinking key putts to secure her position at the top of the leaderboard.
Wannasaen’s performance was nothing short of impressive, as she navigated the challenging course with precision and poise. Her ability to stay focused and execute under pressure was evident throughout the round, as she birdied several holes and avoided costly mistakes.
The competition at the Dana Open has been fierce, with top players from around the world vying for the coveted title. Wannasaen’s strong finish puts her in prime position to claim victory, but she will need to maintain her momentum and continue to play at a high level in order to secure the win.
As the final round approaches, all eyes will be on Wannasaen as she looks to hold off her competitors and emerge victorious. With her skill, determination, and strong finish in the previous round, she has proven that she has what it takes to come out on top in this prestigious tournament.
Golf fans and spectators alike are eagerly anticipating the conclusion of the Dana Open, as Wannasaen’s one-shot lead sets the stage for an exciting finish. Will she be able to maintain her composure and hold off the competition? Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain – Wannasaen’s strong finish has put her in a prime position to claim victory in this highly anticipated event.