Justin Leonard Wins at the Dominion Energy Charity Classic
In a Sunday marked by wind, Justin Leonard demonstrated patience and precision in putting, which earned him a crucial victory at the Dominion Energy Charity Classic. With a spectacular finish of birdie-par-eagle, Leonard signed a card of 68 strokes, four under par, securing the triumph by one stroke difference over Ernie Els.
This is Leonard’s second victory on the PGA Tour Champions this year, allowing him to move into the top 10 in the first playoff event for the Charles Schwab Cup.
The tournament was key, as the top 54 players advance to the next postseason event, which will be held next week in Arkansas.
Ernie Els, who seemed to be in control in the second half of the James River course at the Country Club of Virginia, with birdies on the 15th and 16th holes, suffered a setback on the 17th. Leonard took advantage of the opportunity, sinking an eagle from about 20 feet to get to 12 under par and secure the lead.
Els didn’t get a birdie on the final hole, which would have allowed him to force a tie. He finished with 72 strokes, sharing second place with Thomas Bjorn, who also turned in a card of 68.
Bernhard Langer, the 68-year-old German golfer, who has won every year on the PGA Tour Champions since turning 50, was two strokes off the lead before a bogey that frustrated his aspirations. He finished with 72 strokes, three behind the leader.
Scott Parel, with a round of 71, tied for 21st place and climbed three positions to number 53, securing his place in next week’s Simmons Bank Championship. David Bransdon, on the other hand, was out.
The top 36 players after next week’s event will advance to the Charles Schwab Cup Championship, the tournament that closes the season.
