Justin Leonard Wins at the Dominion Energy Charity Classic
In a day marked by wind, Justin Leonard demonstrated patience and precision in putting, which earned him a victory at the Dominion Energy Charity Classic. With a spectacular finish, Leonard achieved a birdie-par-eagle that secured his triumph with a card of 4-under par 68.
This triumph represents Leonard’s second victory on the PGA Tour Champions this year, solidifying his position among the top ten at the start of the Charles Schwab Cup playoffs.
The tournament, held at the James River Course of the Country Club of Virginia, saw Ernie Els fight for the lead. Els, who seemed to be in control in the second half of the course, with birdies on holes 15 and 16, suffered a bogey on the 17th, allowing Leonard to take the lead.
After a birdie on the 16th hole, Leonard hit a 4-iron hybrid to about 20 feet and holed the downhill eagle putt, finishing with a total of 12-under par 204.
Els failed to sink a 10-foot birdie putt on the final hole, which would have forced a playoff. 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, stayed two strokes behind the lead until a long three-putt bogey frustrated his aspirations. With a round of 72 strokes, he finished three strokes behind the winner, seeking his first victory in the Champions this year.
Scott Parel, with a round of 71, tied for 21st place, climbing three positions to secure the 53rd spot and advance to the Simmons Bank Championship.
The top 54 advance to the second postseason event in Arkansas next week.
The top 36 after next week will advance to the Charles Schwab Cup Championship that will end the season.
