The air crackled with electricity at the Bogota Country Club as Cristobal del Solar etched his name into golfing history, carding a staggering 13-under-par 57 in the opening round of the Korn Ferry Tour’s Astara Championship. This remarkable feat, the lowest score ever recorded in a PGA Tour-sanctioned event and tying the professional tournament record, marks a defining moment not just for the Chilean golfer, but for the entire Korn Ferry Tour.
Del Solar’s brilliance unfolded right from the get-go. The 30-year-old Floridian alumnus ripped through the front nine with a scorching 8-under 27, including an eagle on the par-5 9th.
This momentum carried him through the back nine, where he parred the final three holes to secure his historic round. Two eagles and nine birdies, The magnitude of Del Solar’s achievement cannot be understated.
He surpassed the previous Korn Ferry Tour record of 58 held by Stephan Jaeger since 2016 and matched the 11-under 57 carded by Ireland’s David Carey in 2019 on the Alps Tour. This record-setting round puts Del Solar in the same company as golfing legends like Mike Weir and Stuart Appleby, who also hold the 59 mark.
This isn’t the first time Del Solar has turned heads. The Chilean has enjoyed success on the PGA Tour Latinoamerica, securing four victories, including two in 2022. His consistency and ability to thrive under pressure are evident, making him a rising star on the golf scene.
Del Solar’s feat shines a spotlight on the Korn Ferry Tour, often considered a springboard for aspiring PGA Tour players. This historic round showcases the incredible talent and competitive spirit found on the tour, attracting wider attention and potentially inspiring young golfers to chase their dreams.
While the 57 is undoubtedly the headline grabber, it’s crucial to acknowledge the impact this performance has on Del Solar himself. This confidence booster could propel him towards his first Korn Ferry Tour win and ultimately pave the way for a successful PGA Tour career.
This record-breaking round is more than just a number on a leaderboard. It’s a testament to Del Solar’s dedication, talent, and ability to perform under pressure. It symbolizes the rising potential of Latino golfers and serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes worldwide.
With three rounds remaining in the Astara Championship, the question remains: can Del Solar sustain this momentum and challenge for the title? While maintaining such an exceptional level throughout the tournament might be daunting, the Chilean has already proven his incredible skill and mental fortitude.
Del Solar’s historic round has undoubtedly injected excitement into the Astara Championship. With all eyes glued to him and the rest of the field, the remaining rounds promise to be an electrifying display of competitive golf.
Regardless of the eventual outcome, Cristobal del Solar’s record-setting 57 will be etched in golfing history. This remarkable feat has catapulted him into the spotlight, showcasing the depth of talent on the Korn Ferry Tour and inspiring future generations of golfers. With his captivating performance, Del Solar has ignited a sense of anticipation, leaving everyone eager to witness the next chapter in his journey.