Windy Conditions Test Players at Samui Swine Classic V
Date Published
The Samui Swine Classic V has reached its halfway point, and the 108 competitors have been put to the test by the windy conditions on the island of Koh Som. The picturesque course, which weaves through coconut palm trees along the ocean, proved to be a challenging one, particularly for holes closest to the water.
The steady trade winds, gusting up to 40 kmh (25 mph), made it difficult for players to judge their shots, with many discs sailing inland instead of landing in the basket. This was evident on hole 1, a short but deceptively difficult shot from righties along the beach, where waves lapped just five meters from the basket.
Gregg Barsby, the overnight Open division leader, took advantage of his experience and good karma to post an impressive score of 9-under par 45. He had 10 birdies and seven pars on his card until the final hole, when he failed to make a crucial par save. Barsby's lead is now matched by Jeremy Koling, who also posted a 45.
Other players struggled with the windy conditions, including Nikko Locastro and Philo Brathwaite, who are currently second and third place, respectively. They are five and six strokes off Barsby's pace. In the Open Women's division, Paige Pierce stretched her advantage over Finland's Hanne Määttä, who posted a 52 to finish as the division's best.
In the Masters division, Bryan Motley from Toronto led the field with a low round of 4-under par 50, one stroke ahead of Martin Doerksen and two strokes clear of Glen Oliveiro.
The tournament reaches its climax tomorrow, with 18 holes and an Open Final 9 to be played on the Koh Samui circuit. A mix of sun and showers is forecasted, but the real treat will be the pig roast and other barbecued delicacies prepared by tournament director Nigel Mills for the players when the competition concludes.
This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/pierce-barsby-extend-leads-thailand