UPDATE: Final Round of AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am Delayed; Wyndham Clark Awaits Title
PEBBLE BEACH, Calif. – The highly anticipated final round of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am hangs in the balance as high winds and rain threaten to disrupt the tournament. PGA Tour Chief Referee Gary Young is cautiously optimistic about completing all 72 holes but acknowledges the uncertainty that Mother Nature brings.
Earlier today, the final round was scheduled to commence at 7:45 a.m. PT. However, due to inclement weather conditions at Pebble Beach Golf Links, the start time for the final round has been pushed back. The tour facilities will remain closed until further updates are provided by Tour officials at 7:30 a.m. PT. As of now, play will not begin before 10 a.m. PT.
Wyndham Clark, who shot a course-record 60 on Saturday to secure a one-stroke lead after 54 holes, finds himself on the edge of victory. Depending on the weather conditions, Clark might be declared the champion without having to play 18 additional holes. In an unprecedented move, no spectators will be allowed on the property for the final round if it takes place on Sunday as a precautionary measure. However, if the final round is postponed to Monday, spectators will be allowed.
“Our regulations state that we must make every effort to complete all 72 holes, even if it means playing on Monday,” said Young. “We won’t start play on Monday if we know we won’t be able to finish the round. The cut-off time for starting on Monday is 10:15 a.m. at the latest.”
Young and his team will be present at Pebble Beach Golf Links at 5 a.m. on Sunday to assess the weather conditions and communicate with the players at 5:15 a.m. regarding any potential delays to the tee times. Originally planned for a 7:45 a.m. start, the final round might be delayed due to the forecasted high winds and heavy rain.
The weather forecast predicts sustained winds of 35 to 40 miles per hour, gusts reaching up to 60 miles per hour, and rainfall ranging from one to three inches. Young remains hopeful about completing all 72 holes, but the significantly adverse weather conditions pose a challenge.
“The soggy golf course has been a factor throughout the tournament. If we receive two to three inches of rain, it becomes more doubtful,” Young explained.
The Monday forecast also indicates showers in the morning, aggravating the already saturated course caused by sporadic rain during the week. Young emphasizes the importance of conducting a quality championship while ensuring professional standards. The course conditions should not lead to any golf balls disappearing into the fairways or causing players to lose them.
Last year, the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am required a Monday finish, marking the second time in the past six years. In 2009, the tournament was shortened to 54 holes. The last PGA Tour event to be reduced to 54 holes occurred at the 2016 Zurich Classic of New Orleans.
In the event that Monday’s play does not conclude, a scenario where the tournament extends to Tuesday exists. However, Young clarifies that half the field must finish their rounds on Monday before further extensions can be considered.
Players and fans eagerly await the updated status of the tournament, hoping for favorable conditions that will allow for a thrilling conclusion at the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What caused the delay in the final round of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am?
The final round has been delayed due to the high winds and rain forecasted for Sunday.
Can Wyndham Clark be declared the winner without playing 18 more holes?
Depending on the weather conditions, Clark might be declared the champion without playing any additional holes.
Will spectators be allowed during the final round?
As a precautionary measure, no spectators will be allowed on the property if the final round takes place on Sunday. However, if the final round is moved to Monday, spectators will be admitted.
What are the criteria for playing on Monday?
The regulations state that every effort must be made to complete all 72 holes, including playing on Monday. The cut-off time to start play on Monday is 10:15 a.m. PT.
Are there chances of completing all 72 holes?
Despite the challenging weather forecast, tournament officials remain hopeful, although the amount of rain can affect the outcome.
Has the tournament required a Monday finish in the past?
Yes, the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am required a Monday finish last year, and in 2009, the tournament was shortened to 54 holes due to adverse weather conditions. The last Tour event to be abbreviated to 54 holes was the 2016 Zurich Classic of New Orleans.
Can the tournament extend to Tuesday?
If more than half the field has completed their rounds on Monday, the tournament could potentially extend into Tuesday. However, that decision will depend on multiple factors.
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