The battle for the coveted 425,000 Euros (Ksh66,032,272) cash prize intensified at the close of the third day on Saturday 24 February 2024.
Amidst intermittent rain showers, the third round of the Magical Kenya Open - DP World Tour witnessed exceptional golfing performances as Manuel Elvira of Spain and Darius Van Driel of the Netherlands finished with an impressive score of -10 (203) each. The battle for the coveted 425,000 Euros (Ksh66,032,272) cash prize intensified at the close of the third day on Saturday 24 February 2024.
One humorous moment occurred when Finland's Tapio Pulkannen found his ball stuck up a tree on the eighth tee, much to the delight of the crowd. Despite the setback, Pulkannen managed to maintain his composure, closing the round in joint seventh place with a score of -7 (206), still in contention for his maiden DP World Tour title.
The third round also saw a thrilling three-way tie for third place, with Ryan Van Velzen, Joe Dean, and Connor Syme all finishing at -8 under par (205). Among them, 22-year-old Ryan Van Velzen of South Africa showcased remarkable skill, carding six birdies and only two bogeys despite challenging weather conditions.
In sixth place, a group of five players ended the day tied at -7 under par (206), including seasoned Spaniard Nacho Elvira, who kept pace with his younger compatriot Manuel. Despite facing difficulties, players like Englishman Sam Hutsby, South African Deon Germishuys, and Scotsman Ewen Ferguson displayed commendable performances on the course.
A group of four players, led by the 2022 Kenya Open winner, 38-year-old Ashun Wu from China, remained in contention with a score of -6 (207). Wu, who bounced back from a tough first round, showcased his prowess with eight birdies in the third round, positioning himself well to reclaim the title.
Other notable players finishing at -6 under par included Englishman Matthew Jordan, South African Louis de Jager, and Spaniard Lucas Vacarisas, all of whom demonstrated skill and determination throughout the round.
East Africa's sole survivor, Ronald Rugumayo of Uganda, maintained his consistency, finishing the day with a Par (71) and a total score of 212 across three rounds. Despite the challenges, Rugumayo's performance delighted the crowd, particularly with a clutch birdie on the 18th hole.
Leaderboard - Magical Kenya Open - Round 3:
- Manuel Elvira -10 (203)
- Darius Van Driel -10 (203)
- Ryan Van Velzen -8 (205)
- Joe Dean -8 (205)
- Connor Syme -8 (205)
- Nacho Elvira -7 (206)
- Sam Hutsby -7 (206)
- Deon Germishuys -7 (206)
- Tapio Pulkannen -7 (206)
- Ewen Ferguson -7 (206)
- Ashun Wu -6 (207)
- Matthew Jordan -6 (207)
- Louis de Jager -6 (207)
- Lucas Vacarisas -6 (207)