Elcona member, Matt Christensen trailed Keegan McKinney by four shots heading into the third round of the 116th Indiana Amateur Championship. As the day progressed, things shifted in Christensen's favor and he posted the only under-par round in the lead group.
“I played more aggressively today than I did the first two days,” Christensen said. “I had a couple of opportunities and I capitalized on them.”
McKinney got off to a rough start this morning, losing five shots in his opening four holes and giving Christensen an opportunity to close the gap. Christensen posted a 3-under-par on his front nine and finished the day with a 71, for a three-day total of 1-over-par, 217.
“Knowing the greens and knowing where to miss really helped me out there,” Christensen said. “My goal was to keep doubles away and to keep the ball below the hole. Overall, I am playing more conservatively than I ever do out here and trying to stay patient.”
Christensen played collegiate golf at Frezno State in California and moved to Elkhart three years ago. After college, he played professionally for two years (’99, ’00), including time spent on the Canadian Tour. In ’98, he regained amateur status and had a very successful year, winning several events including the Northern California Amateur.
“This is my first time playing in an Indiana Golf event and it’s a lot of fun,” Christensen said. “The members have been so supportive and I really hope I can represent Elcona tomorrow.”
Christensen qualified for the State Am due to his win at the Elcona Club Championship, where he gained an exemption.
​
18 year-old Keegan Bronnenberg, Muncie, is currently second after posting a three-day total of 4-over-par, 220. Bronnenberg is an Indiana PGA Northern Open Champion (’15) and will attend IPFW next year.
“I’m glad to be trailing and still in the mix,” Bronnenberg said. “I hope to get a good night’s sleep tonight and hopefully make some putts tomorrow.”
36-hole leader McKinney, Avon, is currently tied for third after posting a 7-over-par, 79 today. He shares third with defending champion Sean Rowen, Greenwood, at 5-over-par.
Final round tee times will begin tomorrow morning at 8 a.m.