PGA TOUR Americas 69th ECP Brazil Open shortened to 54 holes due to weather

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil – Due to weather delays that have impacted the competition schedule, the 69th ECP Brazil Open has been shortened to 54 holes, the PGA TOUR Americas Rules Committee announced Friday.

Thursday’s first round was delayed 6 hours, 20 minutes due to rain and unplayable course conditions at the Rio Olympic Course in Rio de Janeiro. The first 24 groups began their first rounds at 1 p.m. Thursday, and play was suspended due to darkness at 5:29 p.m. The 24 groups in the afternoon wave began their first rounds at 8 a.m. local time Friday.

The Rules Committee expects the second round to be complete by the end of Saturday. Considering the amount of daylight available, the Rules Committee determined it’s not possible to play 36 holes on Sunday, and therefore shortened the event to 54 holes.

“While the weather and course conditions have been challenging, I commend the golf course maintenance staff as we work towards a 54-hole event and crowning a worthy champion,” said John Slater, PGA TOUR Americas Chief Referee.

Per PGA TOUR Americas regulations, if event consists of at least 54 holes, the tournament will be considered official and Fortinet Cup points will be awarded.

Through 18 holes, David Pastore, Andrew Alligood and Brendon Doyle share the lead after first-round scores of 7-under 64.