Western Australian star Minjee Lee is on track to claim a second Oates Vic Open after finishing day two at nine-under-par, three shots clear of her closest rivals at 13th Beach Golf Links.
The 21-year old went bogey-free during both rounds, finishing with a six-under 67 today to climb the leader board ahead of Marianne Skarpnord and a chasing pack.
Fellow West Aussie compatriot Hannah Green is also right in the mix, carding a two-under 71 today, still seven shots behind leader Lee in 10th.
Minjee secured six birdies throughout her round of 67, with putting a real key to success over the opening two days.
“I love coming back here,” Minjee claimed. ”I’ve had two good rounds under my belt, so hopefully I can have another two good rounds.”
“I made a couple more putts, but I did miss a couple more greens today.”
A number of par saves have left the talented Australian well clear, with her ability to stay consistent over the 18 holes a delight to watch.
“They (par saves) just keep you going and obviously if you make a bogey, it stops the momentum,” she said.
“I am seeing the lines (on the green) well; just need to get speeds right.”
Lee was paired with former Oates Vic Open winners Marianne Skarpnord and Mel Reid, describing the excitement as her group was followed for much of the morning.
“It was great, we were all pretty chatty, they have been really pleasant to play with today and yesterday,” she mentioned.
“It’s nice to have everyone walking behind us on the fairways and greens. “
Lee was coy on her chances of claiming a second title, however is just focusing on the outcomes that the 21-year old can control.
“Play the wind if the wind gets up and play everything that is in my control,” she said. “In any situation you still play your own game.”
Meanwhile, Brody Martin and Matt Jager are leading the WA male contingent, both in a tie for ninth at five-under-par.
Martin has been the surprise packet of the week thus far, shooting 69 & 70 to be just four shots off leader Anthony Quayle.
The 22-year old went bogey-free in his round today, after recording six birdies and three bogeys in round one.
Jager was impressive yesterday shooting 67, before backing his performance up with 72 today as he pushes for a strong tournament showing.
Jarryd Felton is still in the mix at two-under-par, shooting a pair of 71’s to trail the leader by seven shots.
All players will now move to the Beach Course, where the remaining two rounds of golf will be played.
