That back side Sunday provided some breathing room for John Gianopoulos, CGCS.
Gianopoulos recovered with a second-nine 35 and stands at 1-over-par 73, giving him a 2-stroke advantage headed into today’s final round of the 75th GCSAA National Championships. This is the 31st year that The Toro Company is the presenting partner for the tournaments, this edition being held at Omni La Costa Resort & Spa in Carlsbad, Calif.
Monday’s final round includes the leaders teeing off at 8:30 a.m. Overall, 67 players started Sunday in the Championship section.
A 16-year GCSAA Class A member at Kent Country Club in Grand Rapids, Mich., Gianopoulos finished strong by recording three birdies in his last four holes, including the par-4 18th. Two players are tied behind him following their rounds of 75: Zak Harrington and Andrew Dunlop.
Defending champion Seth Strickland — aiming at becoming the all-time holder in GCSAA Championship titles — is tied for fourth place following a 4-over-par 76. Strickland currently is tied for the record with Emil “Mashie” Masciocchi, each with six titles.
Jordan Serratt is 5-over par 77, along with two others: Shawn Westacott, who is a past champion, and Damian Beasley. Another past champ, Michael Stieler, is at 6-over 78.
Also Monday, a senior division champion will be crowned.
Omni La Costa Resort & Spa is where 21-year GCSAA Class A member David Smallwood oversees the facility as director of agronomy.
Visit GolfGenius to see the full tournament leader board.
Howard Richman is GCM’s associate editor.