Lucas Carper Sets New Course Record in Electrifying Round 1 at the OSF HealthCare Children's Hospital of Illinois Championship
(Peoria, IL) - Round 1 of the OSF HealthCare Children's Hospital of Illinois Championship has come to an exhilarating close. The day began with overcast skies and a slight breeze, creating ideal conditions for the morning wave. However, at 10:52 a.m., a rain delay halted play, with action resuming at 12:00 p.m. under clear skies and rising temperatures.
Wade Binfield from Overland Park, Kansas, set the pace early, leading the morning wave with an impressive 9-under par. However, the afternoon wave brought the day's most spectacular performance. Lucas Carper from Auburn, California, began his round with three consecutive birdies and reached 7-under par through nine holes. On the back nine, Carper continued his remarkable play, adding birdies on the first two holes, a bogey on the third, and then three more birdies.
Carper's incredible run put him on 59 watch after his birdie on the 7th hole. He capped off his round with a dramatic 35-foot birdie putt, securing a historic score of 58. This score not only set a new course record at Metamora Fields Golf Club but also broke the previous record of 62, held by last year's champion, Charlie Saxon.
In his post-round interview, Carper expressed his astonishment, stating, "Going throughout the entire day, it didn't make it to me that I was, you know that low, and the birdies just kept coming and I don't know how to feel right now. I don't even know how I'm going to sleep right now." The young golfer, in only his second professional event since graduating from UC-Davis in May, was clearly overwhelmed by his performance.
Lucas Carper will tee off at 8:39 a.m. at Weaver Ridge Golf Club for Round 2. As we move into the next round, all eyes will be on Carper to see if he can maintain his extraordinary form. The stage is set for another thrilling day at the OSF HealthCare Children's Hospital of Illinois Championship.
Paiton Haga
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