Richard James in control at South Beach Intl Am

MIAMI BEACH, Florida (December 21, 2014) -- Richard James of Ceredigion, Wales has led the South Beach International from the first round on and his one over par 72 (-9) at Miami Beach Golf Club sets him up with a two stroke lead going into the final round. The former University of South Florida star has a two stroke lead over the upstart high school senior Gabriel Lench of Lake Mary, Florida. Lench’s even par 71 puts him one shot closer to, and two shots back of James at 7 under par. Joining Lench at 7 under after rounds of 70 are UNC’s Ben Griffin of Chapel Hill, North Carolina and Barry University’s Adam Svensson of Surry, Canada.

Three players tied for low round of the day at 67. VCU golfer Adam Ball’s 67 moved him up to a tie for 5th place with Edward Figueroa of Naples, Florida who shot a 2 under par 69. Tennessee golfer Kyle Kochevar of Glen Ellyn, Illinios and Andre Tourinho of Rio de Jeneiro, Brazil also carded the day’s best scores, moving them up to a tie for 9th and 12th respectively.

“Today’s results and the tightening of the field was to be expected, and has happened every year.” said SBIA Executive Director Jeff Hunt. “With this many of the world’s best amateur golfers, I can guarantee that tomorrow’s final round is going to be very exciting as the greens get even faster than the 11.5 they were rolling at today, and firmer,” Hunt added.

Sunday’s round four of South Beach International Amateur action starts at 7:30am with the final group teeing off at 11:37 at the Miami Beach Golf Club. Spectators are encouraged to come and watch and admittance is free.

Story courtesy Tournament Committee