Ko and Day Claim Victory at Grant Thornton Invitational in Thrilling Finish Lydia Ko and Jason Day walked away victorious at the inaugural Grant Thornton Invitational, a first-of-its-kind mixed-team PGA TOUR and LPGA TOUR event held at Tiburon Golf Club in Naples, Florida. The dynamic duo battled through a closely contested tournament, culminating in a dramatic final round that kept the audience on the edge of their seats. Ko and Day began the tournament with a solid 6-under 66, setting the tone for a tight competition. The field remained bunched throughout the first two rounds, with several teams vying for the lead. Ko's consistent play and Day's powerful driving kept them near the top of the leaderboard. The tournament's turning point arrived on the par-5 17th hole during the final round. With the teams tied for the lead, Ko stepped up and delivered a clutch 3-wood from 203 yards, finding the green and setting up a two-putt birdie. This crucial shot proved to be the difference-maker, putting Ko and Day in prime position to secure the victory. After Ko's birdie on 17, the duo remained calm and collected, parring the final hole to finish with a 6-under 66 for the day and a 26-under 190 total. Their winning score placed them one stroke ahead of the second-place team of Brooke Henderson and Sungjae Im, solidifying their victory. Ko and Day's victory at the Grant Thornton Invitational marked several milestones. They became the inaugural champions of this innovative mixed-team event, showcasing the growing popularity of such formats in golf. Additionally, Ko's win further cemented her status as a dominant force in women's golf, while Day added another impressive title to his already decorated career. This tournament was not simply about the competition. It also served as a platform to promote gender equality and inclusivity within the sport of golf. The successful execution of this mixed-team event paved the way for future collaborations between the PGA TOUR and LPGA TOUR, potentially opening doors for additional opportunities for both male and female golfers. The success of the Grant Thornton Invitational has generated significant excitement, and its future seems bright. With the thrilling competition, groundbreaking format, and positive impact on inclusivity, this event has the potential to become a staple on the professional golf calendar. As Ko and Day celebrate their historic victory, the world of golf looks forward to the next chapter of this exciting mixed-team format. Thanks for listening to Quiet Please. Remember to like and share wherever you get your podcasts.
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