Jason Roets produced a brilliant round of 65 on day two of the Mopani Zambia Open at the Nkana Golf Club to lead fellow South African James Mack by three shots on eight under par going into the weekend.
“It’s awesome being out here in Zambia. It’s always a treat playing in Africa as it brings a different atmosphere than what we are used to. The locals really come out and support, so you can feed off the energy and the vibe out here,” said Roets, who also has a top-three finish in eSwatini behind his name.
Starting his round on the 10th hole, Roets did most of his scoring in a run of four birdies in five holes over the turn. He dropped only two shots in his round.
“I am really happy with the way I played today. I hit the ball really nice, which is key out here as the course can play tricky with it being so demanding. Hitting it well today took a lot of stress out of it,” Roets said.
Heading into the weekend with a three-shot lead, Roets is well placed to challenge for a maiden Sunshine Tour title come Sunday’s final round, after following a run of top-10s towards the end of last season.
“It was nice to post a good score today. I am pleased with my two days so far and excited for the weekend. The weekend is going to be a lot of fun,” he said.
Mack worked his way into contention with a round of 69, while Sunshine Tour rookie Rigardt Albertse signed for a 71 to move into third place on four under par.
Haydn Porteous, who led the first round, kept himself in contention on three under par despite a second round of 74.