Chan Kim showcased his remarkable golfing skills once again, eagling the par-4 fourth hole for the second consecutive day at the ISCO Championship. His impressive performance included a 36-yard chip-in, contributing to a 2-under 68 on Friday, which solidified his lead to five strokes at Hurstbourne Country Club in Louisville, Kentucky.
On the previous day, Kim made headlines by holing out from 123 yards on the same hole, resulting in a stunning score of 61 that initially placed him four shots ahead. Reflecting on his recent success, Kim remarked, “Obviously, the hole-out on 4 again… if I could make four 2s on that hole I’d be very happy.”
By the end of the second round, Kim’s total score reached 11 under par. He also made a significant birdie on the par-4 eighth hole with a remarkable 35-foot chip. Meanwhile, Kris Ventura and Vince Whaley, who shot rounds of 64 and 67 respectively, along with Thomas Rosenmueller at 69, were tied for second place, each sitting at 6 under.
Kim’s Strategy and Background
The 35-year-old golfer, originally from South Korea and raised in Hawaii, expressed the importance of patience on the course. “I know I shot 9 under yesterday, but the course is not playing that easy,” Kim said, highlighting the challenges even after a strong start.
Kim, an eight-time winner on the Japan Golf Tour, is in pursuit of his first title on the PGA Tour. He emphasized the need to maintain focus and composure, stating, “Just keep my foot down. I know that these guys are so good; somebody’s going to catch up.” He aims to replicate the mindset that led him to success in previous tournaments.
The winner of the ISCO Championship will receive a two-year exemption on the PGA Tour and a coveted spot at the PGA Championship next year. Notably, none of the participants are scheduled to compete in The Open next week. Last year’s champion, Harry Hall, who won in a playoff at Keene Trace, has qualified for The Open and will be playing in the Scottish Open.
Round Highlights and Competitors
In his second round, Kim opened with a birdie on the par-5 10th but faced some setbacks, dropping strokes on the par-4 11th, 16th, and first holes. His performance improved significantly with an eagle on the fourth, achieved after a powerful 333-yard drive that left him just short of the green. He further solidified his advantage with a birdie on the par-5 seventh hole.
David Skinns also had a notable performance, finishing with a score of 64, which placed him at 5 under, alongside competitors Rico Hoey (67), Zac Blair (66), Kevin Kisner (69), Nick Hardy (68), Callum Tarren (68), Paul Peterson (68), and Beau Hossler (68). Auburn junior Jackson Koivun continued to impress, finishing the day at 1 under after a solid round of 66 and tying for 11th last week in the John Deere Classic.
In contrast, Kentucky native J.B. Holmes faced disappointment, missing the cut with rounds of 74 and 72, despite receiving a sponsor exemption for the tournament.
As the championship progresses, all eyes will be on Chan Kim to see if he can maintain his lead and secure his first PGA Tour victory.
