After a rain-shortened Saturday in the IOA Golf Classic presented by LPT Realty at Alaqua Country Club in Longwood, Fla., Grace Kim fired a bogey-free, 6-under 65 while Kum-Kang Park recorded seven birdies for a 5-under 66 to share the overnight lead of 11-under par.
Second-round action was suspended at 5:37 p.m. ET due to dangerous weather in the area. Play was called shortly thereafter. The second round will resume at 8:30 a.m. on Sunday, with a cut made to the top-60 players plus ties upon its conclusion. Final round will begin no earlier than 12:30 p.m. ET off Nos. 1 and 10 tees.
The performance by Kim marked a career-low round for the Epson Tour rookie.
“I’ve hit my shots straight which has helped because several holes are quite tight, and you have to be precise,” said Kim. “I had a clearer mind today, so hopefully do that again tomorrow. I will attack when I can and be appropriate with my shots.”
Another Australian in Sarah Jane Smith sits one shot back at 10-under par follow a second straight 66.
“Today probably felt a bit more solid, overall. It was solid throughout the whole day,” said the 17-year LPGA Tour veteran. “I played nice yesterday but had four birdies in a row, so it all happened quickly. I’ve been putting really well and not leaving myself any sneaky long ones. Everything has been a good pace and I have good feel on the greens.
“I think tomorrow will need a really low one but there are lots of birdies out here, so it’s a fun course to do that on.”
Jillian Hollis signed for a 66 to share fourth place at 9-under par with Yan Liu (68) and 18-hole leader Katelyn Sisk, who was even par through eight holes before the final horns blew to signal the suspension of play. Lindy Duncan (65), Robyn Choi (66) and Jaravee Boonchant (67) are -8 and in a tie for seventh.
A two-time Epson Tour champion, Hollis will have a mixed bag of experiences—new and old—to rely on come Sunday afternoon.
“I can definitely lean on good golf and good results from the past,” said Hollis. “But going out and hitting one shot at a time, staying super present, those are the goals. Will try to stay in the moment and not get too far ahead of myself tomorrow.”
A total of 64 players ended Saturday at 1-under par or better.
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