Maple Hill Roars Back to Life as DGPT Leaders Emerge

The picturesque Maple Hill course was abuzz with excitement as the Disc Golf Pro Tour (DGPT) - MVP Open entered its final stages on Saturday. Despite initially challenging conditions, the players began to find their rhythm, and some truly exceptional rounds were recorded.

In the FPO division, Natalie Ryan seized the top spot after a masterful performance on the back nine of Maple Hill, carding three birdies without any bogeys. This outstanding effort propelled her one throw ahead of Kristen Tattar and Missy Gannon in the overall standings. Valarie Mandujano also impressed with a 1-under-par round, earning herself a spot alongside Ryan at the top of the leaderboard.

Paige Pierce, currently tied with Mandujano at 7-over for the tournament, will be leading the chase card along with Rebecca Cox, Vanessa Van Dyken, and Deann Carey. The warmer and calmer conditions expected on Sunday morning should provide ideal scoring opportunities for the many players still in contention.

Meanwhile, in the MPO division, Corey Ellis took the lead after posting an impressive 8-under-par round, moving to 12-under overall. Gannon Buhr is hot on his heels, having sunk a thrilling 60-foot putt at the 15th hole and currently sitting three throws behind Ellis. The two will be joined by Linus Carlsson and Thomas Gilbert in the final foursome.

A significant number of players are still within striking distance of the leaders, with Ricky Wysocki and Paul McBeth both poised to make a move on Sunday. The day's final round promises to be an exhilarating one as players vie for spots in the 2022 DGPT Tour Championship or look to improve their tour standings.

The stakes are high, particularly in the FPO division where Valarie Mandujano and Missy Gannon are locked in a tight battle for fourth position, which would guarantee them a bye in the first round of the championship. Madison Walker and others are also vying for a spot in the play-in round that will determine the final two women to make the championship field.

In the MPO division, Jeremy Koling is currently on the bubble, while Ben Callaway finds himself on the outside looking in. With only the top eight receiving byes in the first round and the top 30 locked into the field, a number of players will be fighting for their Tour Championship hopes on Sunday.

The Disc Golf Network's final round coverage begins at 9:15 ET, offering fans the chance to witness the drama unfold live.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/news/heat