Lauren Coughlin and Andrew Novak share the lead at the Grant Thornton Invitational after firing matching rounds of 66 in round three. The dynamic pair secured a key one-stroke advantage as they entered the final round. Their glorious eagle on the par-5 17th hole was central to this extraordinary feat. Their best mark of the week in the more demanding foursomes format was an impressive 4-under 68. This win put them firmly in the lead on the very competitive leaderboard!
Coughlin’s defining moment came when she drained her long bunker shot on 17. That game-changing play helped her team maintain their lead all the way to the end. Tricky Coughlin and Novak prepare for the blow-off with the slimmest of margins. Only their nearest rivals, Nelly Korda and Denny McCarthy, stand only three strokes back. Jennifer Kupcho and Chris Gotterup are both still tied with Korda and McCarthy. Each player has their eyes on the big prize, ready to capitalize on any opportunity that emerges.
The tournament, billed as the only true mixed-team event outside of the top professional ranks, has created a palpable buzz. When Charley Hull & Michael Brennan faced the 18th tee, they were in contention, leading by one shot. A three-putt bogey on the last hole sent their score spiraling upward to 71. Hull expressed her disappointment, stating,
“Obviously, it would have been nice going with the lead into the final round.” – Charley Hull
Coughlin and Novak put on quite a show. Lexi Thompson and Wyndham Clark were only two strokes back, both making 8 straight pars on their way to their own 72. It will definitely be stiff competition with world-class duos such as Brooke Henderson—two-time major champion—and fellow Canadian Corey Conners.
“But we can make plenty of birdies out there tomorrow.” – Charley Hull
He further opened up about how he has been thinking of legacy as they near the last day, stating that,
The teams are looking ahead to an action-packed finale to the Grant Thornton Invitational. Coughlin and Novak hope to continue building their advantage and lock up wins against a very deep pack of challengers. The concluding round promises to be an exciting battle with plenty of opportunity for dramatic changes at the top of the standings.
“Some are calling it the modern-day Grand Slam — Zurich, Grant Thornton.” – Andrew Novak
He also acknowledged his thoughts about legacy as they approach the final day, saying,
“Obviously, thinking about my legacy a little bit tomorrow.” – Andrew Novak
As the teams gear up for what promises to be an exciting conclusion to the Grant Thornton Invitational, Coughlin and Novak will look to maintain their lead and secure victory against a strong field of competitors. The final round is set to be a thrilling contest filled with potential for dramatic shifts in the leaderboard.
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