England’s Chris Wood delivered a masterclass in precision golf, completing 36 consecutive holes without a single bogey to seize the lead at the Rolear Algarve Classic. The three-time DP World Tour veteran carded a four-under-par 68 on the O’Connor Course at Amendoeira Golf Resort, bringing his tournament total to 11-under-par 133. Wood’s flawless performance gives him a narrow one-stroke advantage heading into Thursday’s decisive final round of this $100,000 MENA Golf Tour event.
Wood’s strategic brilliance shone through despite what he described as mentally challenging conditions. ‘I wasn’t quite as sharp as I felt yesterday mentally,’ Wood revealed, crediting his caddie and longtime friend Chris Lloyd for their collaborative problem-solving. ‘The way Lloydy can say things is very commanding, like he’s got your back. It’s a mental reminder.’ Their partnership proved particularly valuable during the demanding final holes played directly into the setting sun.
Scotland’s emerging talent Aidan O’Hagan lurks just one shot behind at 10-under after posting a 69. The 21-year-old attributes his success to maintaining relaxation under pressure: ‘I think that’s when I play my best golf – when I’m relaxed and just free to hit the shots that I see.’ A victory would dramatically reshape O’Hagan’s winter schedule, guaranteeing his participation in upcoming events in Egypt.
Ireland’s Max Kennedy remains firmly in contention at eight-under-par, demonstrating remarkable consistency with just one bogey through two rounds. Kennedy emphasized the value of competing against seasoned professionals: ‘The more you do that, the more you get used to that environment, the better you’re going to be.’
The tournament witnessed several notable performances, including Portuguese native Vasco Alves’ bogey-free 65 – the day’s lowest round. UAE’s Ahmad Skaik successfully made the cut in just his second professional appearance despite battling health issues, stating: ‘I’m just staying in the present and keeping fighting.’
With ten players within five strokes of the lead and $18,000 plus valuable OWGR points awaiting the champion, Thursday’s final round promises a dramatic conclusion to this international showdown.