Chandler Blanchet has taken a commanding lead at the Puerto Rico Open after posting a 5-under 67 in the second round. His total score stands at 13-under 131, giving him a four-shot advantage heading into the weekend.
Blanchet, making his first cut of the year on the PGA TOUR, impressed by birdieing all three par-5 holes at the Grand Reserve course. This strong performance matched the tournament record for the largest lead through 36 holes.
Two teenage players are also prominently in the mix. Eighteen-year-old Blades Brown, who turned professional before graduating high school earlier this year, shot an impressive 67 in round two. Brown is tied for third place at 8-under 136, alongside Ricky Castillo, Jesper Svensson, and Jeremy Paul.
Seventeen-year-old Miles Russell, who has committed to Florida State but is currently competing on tour, made the cut for the first time in his fifth PGA TOUR start. He secured his spot with a clutch birdie from a bunker on the par-5 ninth hole.
John Daly II, son of the two-time major champion John Daly, remains in contention as well. Playing bogey-free golf, he sits six shots behind the leader, tied for seventh place. This event marks Daly II’s PGA TOUR debut, continuing his father’s legacy at the Puerto Rico Open, where John Daly himself had notable finishes including a tie for 10th in 2015.
Reflecting on his progress, Blanchet acknowledged the challenges he faced earlier in the season. “The first part of the season, it’s been difficult, for sure,” Blanchet said. “It’s no fun practicing on Saturday and Sunday and not playing and waiting five days. So I will be very happy to play some golf on a Saturday and Sunday this weekend.”
Brown expressed optimism about his chances this weekend, noting the valuable experience gained from playing in the final group with Scottie Scheffler at a recent tournament. “Yeah, we’re halfway there,” he said. “A lot can happen in two days, so I’m excited for the weekend.”
Daly II spoke about the significance of continuing his father’s connection to the tournament. “It’s awesome. This place has always been one of my favorites to come watch my dad play back in the day, so it’s pretty cool to make it to the weekend,” he commented. He aims to play without pressure, stating, “Honestly, go out there and try to go as low as I can. I got nothing to lose, so just go out there and have fun and just keep doing what I’m doing.”
The Puerto Rico Open offers the winner significant opportunities, including a spot in THE PLAYERS Championship and the PGA Championship the following week. However, it does not provide entry into the Masters, as the event runs opposite the Arnold Palmer Invitational.
1. Chandler Blanchet: 13-under 131 (leader)
2. Gordon Sargent: Four shots behind, after a 70 in round two
3. Blades Brown: 8-under 136, tied for third
4. Ricky Castillo, Jesper Svensson, Jeremy Paul: Also tied at 8-under 136
5. John Daly II: Six shots behind, tied for seventh
As the tournament moves into its final days, Blanchet’s substantial lead faces challenges from promising teenagers and Daly II’s steady play. Golf fans will be watching to see if Blanchet can convert his remarkable start into a victory or if one of his pursuers stages a late surge.
Read more at: www.pgatour.com