Sampson Zheng did not let the gusty wind affect his pursuit of excellence.
The senior from California shot a 6-under 65, breaking the amateur Composite Course record to take the lead with 18 holes remaining and major exemptions on offer. Zheng broke the amateur Composite Course Record with a 6-under-par 65 to gain the lead and earn major exemptions.
Zheng started the day T-13, six shots behind. He has four shots lead after six birdies, an eagle and two bogeys.
Zheng, who won the U.S. Zheng won the U.S. Cherry Hills Country Club, outside Denver. It’s not surprising that he performs at his best when he plays on the biggest stages, but Saturday’s performance is exceptional.
Zheng replied, “It’s really nice.” It feels special to have shot 65 in conditions like today’s, when everyone else was not as lucky.
Zheng Zheng won the Bonallack Trophy for the Asia-Pacific in Spain. Who held the Composite Course Record at Royal Melbourne? Sir Michael Bonallack and Kazuma Kobi, the first-round leader, both tied at 5-under 66 on Thursday.
Zheng is four points ahead of Billy Dowling who, after four victories since August, is playing in his first Asia-Pacific Amateur.
The winner will also be exempt from qualifying for the Amateur Championship in 2024. The winner will also not be required to qualify for the Amateur Championship.
