Kazuma Kobori Holds Strong at Australian PGA Championship

Kazuma Kobori remains a strong contender at the Australian PGA Championship, despite losing his lead during a challenging third round affected by storms in Brisbane on March 2, 2024. The New Zealander, currently ranked 183rd in the world, initially surged ahead with an impressive hole-in-one in his first round and a 63 in the second, but his third-round score of 69 leaves him just one shot off the leaders.

After leading the tournament at its halfway point, Kobori’s performance on Saturday kept him firmly in the race. He sits in a tie for fourth, at 12-under, alongside Australia’s top-ranked player, Min Woo Lee, who is the defending champion. The two players trail a trio of competitors sitting at 13-under, which includes Australian Anthony Quayle, Portugal’s Ricardo Gouveia, and Spain’s David Puig.

Kobori’s promising start on Saturday featured two early birdies, but the tournament took a turn when severe weather forced a two-hour suspension of play. Following the delay, Kobori struggled to regain his momentum, recording an unremarkable streak of 16 consecutive pars to end his day. Despite the setback, he remains in a strong position to challenge for the title, which has not been won by a New Zealander in 26 years.

The day was marked by a competitive atmosphere, with multiple players vying for the top spots. Former champions like Adam Scott, who has won the tournament twice, showcased their skills with five birdies early in the round. Meanwhile, fellow Kiwi Ryan Fox experienced a setback, finishing with a score of 73 and dropping to a tie for 57th at three-under.

Several other New Zealand players also made their mark. Daniel Hillier is tied for sixth, having shot a 67, while Nick Voke is in a five-way tie for 10th at 10-under. Voke’s round was highlighted by a remarkable eagle at the par-four 12th, but both players faltered on the final hole.

As the tournament heads into its final round, Kobori’s performance will be closely watched. His solid play, despite the challenges faced, indicates he is well-positioned to make a significant push for victory. With the potential to become the first New Zealander to win the Australian PGA Championship in over two decades, the excitement around his journey continues to build.