Wednesday at Benoni Country Club saw Kayle Wykes deliver a masterclass in golf, carding an exceptional six-under-par 66 that propelled him into a share of the lead at eight-under-par. He now stands shoulder-to-shoulder with overnight leader Jacquin Hess, promising an exciting finale to the Betway Big Easy Tour #4.
Despite the challenging cold and windy conditions in Benoni, Wykes played with a remarkable composure that belied his experience, showcasing the kind of mental fortitude you’d expect from a seasoned pro. While playing alongside Hess, who managed a solid 70 to retain his top spot, Wykes truly shined.
His round kicked off from the 10th hole, where he immediately set the tone with a sensational eagle, followed by a pair of birdies. This blistering start saw him turn in a bogey-free 32, a testament to his precision and early momentum.
The back nine (his front nine) continued to be fruitful for Wykes, as he added three more birdies on the first, third, and fifth holes. These crucial gains pushed him further up the leaderboard. However, golf often has its twists, and Wykes faced a brief stumble with back-to-back bogeys on holes six and seven. But in a display of true grit and determination, he immediately shook off those setbacks with a magnificent birdie on his very last hole, securing that brilliant round of 66.
This clutch finish on the 18th was a pivotal moment, not only rounding off his exceptional score but also showcasing his ability to rebound under pressure. Now, sharing the lead by a single stroke, Wykes is acutely aware of the challenge that lies ahead. The stage is set for him to potentially claim glory, but he’ll need to replicate this impressive form in the final round.
Meanwhile, Australia’s Austin Bautista also made his move, piecing together a 71 to sit in solo third at seven-under, while Vaughn Van Deventer of State Mines Country Club soared into fourth after a strong 67. The leaderboard is tight, and Wykes’s stunning second round has certainly made him a strong contender.
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