Ardina falls to solo 2nd place in Sioux Falls tilt

Dottie Ardina came up with a strong start but struggled on the back nine and slipped to second spot after a one-under 69 on Saturday in the third round of the Sioux Falls Greatlife Challenge in South Dakota (Sunday, Manila time).

The Filipina shotmaker started the day with a one-stroke lead and had a fine start with three birdies on the front nine, but slipped with two bogeys on the homeward nine at Willow Run Golf Course.

Ardina stood at 7-under 203, a stroke off Linnea Strom of Sweden, who carded a 66.

The leader in the Volvik Race for the Card, Ardina has four runner-up finishes this season and is hoping to make it to the top this time.

“I was playing good on the front nine, but couldn’t get it together on the back nine with a three-putt and bogey on No. 17,” Ardina told symetratour.com.

“There’s still tomorrow so I just need to continue to play well.”

“I’m just going to do my best tomorrow and work on more of a mental game” said Ardina.

“As long as I put myself in a good position to win, I’m good with that. Right now, I’m in a good spot and like where I’m at.”