The second round of the Watson Challenge began Friday morning at Mission Hills Country Club. Julian Taylor, the current frontrunner, wrapped up his round with a birdie on 18, shooting an impressive 3-under 67.
“Putting was the best part of my game today,” Taylor said, “I drove the ball really poorly.” Taylor made eight birdies in his second round and hopes to keep that hot streak going into the final round.
Joseph Winslow, who also shot a 3-under 67, is in second place, one stroke ahead of Ben Hadden. Winslow carded seven birdies in his second round, which helped to push him to second place. “My mental game was the best part of my game today. I stayed focused and patient,” Winslow said, walking off the eighteenth green. He is looking forward to the final round tomorrow.
Ben Hadden made a remarkable leap from 10th to 3rd place after his second round. His bogey-free back nine, coupled with four birdies, propelled him to a 3-under 67 score, securing him a solo third place. Hadden’s performance is a testament to his skill and determination, and he’s definitely one to watch in the final round.
Amateur Jackson Foth and Davis Cooper are tied for fourth at even par. They are still in excellent standing to earn the title of best golfer in Kansas City.
Will King recorded a 4-under 66 to card the best round of the day.
The final round of the Challenge will begin at 8:00 a.m. Saturday. Tom Watson will attend the award ceremony following the round.