The Latin American Amateur Championship, hosted in Argentina, witnessed a dramatic turn of events as Justin Hastings from the Cayman Islands and Patrick Sparks of Peru tied for the lead. Hastings opened his play with an impressive streak, achieving seven birdies in the first 13 holes. However, a sudden storm caused a delay, halting the championship for over two hours. Despite the interruption, Hastings managed to birdie the 18th hole, concluding with a 7-under 65 to share the lead with Sparks at 8-under 136.
The storm's impact was palpable as the rain softened and elongated the course, stripping it of any wind advantage. The cut for the championship was established at 2-over 146, leading to disappointment for Aaron Jarvis, the 2022 champion, who missed the cut. Hastings, despite bogeying the 14th hole upon resumption of play, finished strongly with one last birdie, maintaining his position at the top.
"Honestly, when I'm 7 under through 13, I feel like I'm so deep in the zone nothing can affect me – except going and sitting inside for two hours,"
— Justin Hastings
Hastings and Sparks are ahead by one stroke over Erich Fortlage and Jose Antonio Safa. The stakes are high as the winner not only receives an invitation to play in the Masters in April but also gains exemptions into this year's U.S. Open and British Open. For Sparks, the thought of these prestigious opportunities looms large.
"It's hard not to think about it,"
— Patrick Sparks
As the competition progresses, all eyes are on Hastings and Sparks as they navigate through the challenges presented by both their competitors and the weather. Hastings remains focused on his strategy, eager to maintain his momentum.
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