Hand stroke by Sebastián García Rodríguez (-10) in the third round of the Hainan Open. It was time to make a move to leave an option for Sunday, and that’s exactly what the Madrid native has done. A round of 67 strokes built on a sensational start to the day, with four birdies in the first six holes. He hasn’t committed any bogeys and has placed himself in seventh position. He is tied with Rocco Repetto (-10). The Malaga native managed to hold on during a day when things didn’t seem to be going his way. In fact, he started with two bogeys in the first five holes. From there, an excellent stretch of four under par, with six birdies and two bogeys. A new demonstration of the grit this young player has in abundance.
Sebas and Rocco, Rocco and Sebas, have left themselves a chance of victory for Sunday. It’s not easy. There are 18 holes left and they are five strokes behind the leader Lars Van Meijel (-15). They will need to play very well and hope for some help from the Dutchman, but it’s not impossible. They are only two strokes away from second place, occupied by the Swede Per Langfors (-12). Winning would be fantastic, but finishing among the top five would be a great move for the two Spaniards. Rocco would almost secure his DP World Tour card, while Sebas would be within reach of a place among the top 20, the big goal of the season. Both Meijel and Langfors would be taking a giant step in China to secure their European Tour card. However, there is still a day left that could feel very long.
Good manoeuvre also by Adri Arnaus (-5). The player from Moià has signed a score of 68 strokes and is on the verge of the top 25. He still has room to seal a great week and secure, first, his presence in the grand final in Mallorca.
Further back are Albert Boneta (-3), Quim Vidal (PAR), and Lucas Vacarisas (+3). A weak day for all three. The good thing is they still have one round left to fix the week. Every point counts from the first tournament of the year, and now that there’s no margin for error, even more so.
