Lauren Coughlin and Andrew Novak take the lead into Sunday at the Grant Thornton Invitational after a stunning eagle on 17.
The second round of the Grant Thornton Invitational delivered plenty of excitement, especially from leaders Lauren Coughlin and Andrew Novak. Coughlin holed out from a bunker on the 17th for an eagle, propelling the duo to a 4-under 68 in the foursomes format and a one-shot lead heading into the final round. They reached 19-under-par overall, edging ahead of Charley Hull and Michael Brennan, who were tied until Hull three-putted the final hole for bogey, finishing with a 71.
Grant Thornton Invitational: Novak and Coughlin Shine in Team Format
Novak and Coughlin delivered a thrilling performance on Saturday. After a quiet front nine with just one birdie on the 7th, they picked up momentum on the back nine. Birdies on 12 and 13 were followed by a double bogey on the tough 14th, momentarily setting them back. But Novak responded with a birdie on 15, and Coughlin’s spectacular eagle on 17 sealed their strong finish. Novak, who already won the Zurich Classic of New Orleans with Ben Griffin earlier this year, is eyeing another team title. The Grant Thornton Invitational is the only mixed-team event on the PGA and LPGA Tours.
Modified Fourball Format Awaits in Final Round
The final round will be played in a modified fourball format: both players tee off, then switch balls and play the rest of the hole with their partner’s ball, counting the better score. “Four birdies and an eagle — that’s really solid for alternate shot,” Novak said. Staying composed, he joked about chasing a unique achievement. “Some call it the modern Grand Slam — Zurich, Grant Thornton,” he laughed. “Of course, I’ll be thinking a little about my legacy tomorrow.” Hull, meanwhile, is embracing the chaser role. “It would’ve been nice to have the lead, but we can still make a lot of birdies tomorrow,” she said.