PGA Tour veteran Keith Mitchell stole the spotlight during the third round of the 2024 Valspar Championship at Innisbrook, delivering a remarkable finish that set him apart from his competitors.
As the round progressed on Saturday at the challenging Copperhead Course, it seemed multiple players could potentially claim a share of the lead heading into Sunday. However, Mitchell’s final hole heroics dashed those hopes for his rivals.
Tied for the lead with three other players – Seamus Power, Mackenzie Hughes, and Peter Malnati – as he approached the daunting 417-yard, par-4 18th hole, Mitchell faced a nerve-wracking situation. The tight fairway, flanked by bunkers, and a well-defended green posed significant challenges.
With everything on the line, Mitchell displayed his experience and skill. His tee shot, a precisely executed wood, sailed 266 yards down the fairway, leaving him with 151 yards to the pin. Opting for a wedge, Mitchell confidently struck the ball, watching it soar through the air before landing just a foot from the flag and miraculously bouncing into the cup.
In a moment of modesty or perhaps disbelief, Mitchell initially didn’t witness his shot’s full glory. As his ball approached the green, he momentarily lowered his head, seemingly distracted. Only upon hearing the ecstatic reactions around him did he realize the magnitude of his accomplishment, his expression transforming from surprise to elation as he celebrated with his caddie.
The spectacular hole-out not only secured an eagle-2 for Mitchell but also granted him a two-shot lead heading into the final round on Sunday, setting the stage for a potential second PGA Tour victory in his career.
Mitchell’s previous triumph came at the 2019 Honda Classic, and his consistent performance this year, with two top-10 finishes already, suggests he’s poised for further success. With his eyes firmly set on the championship, Mitchell stands ready to seize the opportunity that lies ahead on the final day of the Valspar Championship.