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 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 up to the top 10 in the standings after the first Charles Schwab Cup playoffs event.
Leonard’s performance was crucial in the final stretch of the tournament. After a birdie on the 16th hole, he connected with a 4-iron hybrid that left the ball about 20 feet from the hole. Then, he holed an eagle putt downhill, establishing a score of 12 under par (204 strokes).
Ernie Els, who seemed to be in control in the second half of the round at the Virginia Country Club, failed to make a 10-foot birdie putt on the final hole, which would have allowed him to force a playoff. Els finished with 72 strokes, sharing second place with Thomas Bjorn, who also turned in a card of 68.
Bernhard Langer, despite his 68 years and having won every year on the PGA Tour Champions since turning 50, stayed near the top. However, a bogey after a long three-putt frustrated his aspirations. He finished with 72 strokes, three behind the leader.
Scott Parel, with a round of 71 strokes, managed to tie for 21st place, moving up three positions and securing his place in next week’s Simmons Bank Championship.
The 54 best players advanced to the second postseason event, which will be played the following week in Arkansas.
After next week’s tournament, the top 36 will compete in the Charles Schwab Cup Championship, which will mark the end of the season.
