AFP, Mexico City:
Jenny Bae was unable to make the most of a strong start to the third round of the LPGA Riviera Maya Open but held on to a one-stroke lead heading into Sunday’s final round.
The 23-year-old rookie started with three straight birdies but was unable to capitalize on that momentum, finishing with a one-under 71.
Bae’s impressive start was followed by a bogey on the par-four sixth but the back nine proved challenging as she had to settle for pars before ending with bogey on the final hole.
“I was definitely a little nervous and tense heading into the third round,” Bae admitted. “The three birdies back-to-back-to-back were a big confidence booster for me (but) I didn’t finish as well as I wanted to, but that’s OK. It just tells me I need to fight more in the last 18 holes.”