Aaron Rai Shoots 67 for One-Shot Lead in Myrtle Beach Debut Aaron Rai carded a 4-under 67 on Friday at the Myrtle Beach Classic, securing a one-shot advantage over Presidents Cup captain Brandt Snedeker and Mark Hubbard. The 28-year-old Englishman, making his debut at the opposite-field event, navigated the Dunes Golf & Beach Club’s challenging layout with precision, including four birdies on his inward nine. Rai’s performance left him at 10-under 132, setting the stage for a competitive weekend. Rai, who has one PGA Tour victory, expressed confidence in the course’s setup, recalling how it appeared on television when Chris Gotterup won the event two years ago. He emphasized the significance of the tournament as a prelude to the PGA Championship, which he will compete in next week. “It’s been a lovely environment to play in actually the first two days,” Rai said. “Being in a group with Brooks Koepka, Davis Thompson, who are both very good players… obviously Brooks is one of the best players in the world. So it’s created a great atmosphere to play in.” Snedeker, the American captain for the upcoming Presidents Cup, posted a bogey-free 66 in a moderate breeze, while Hubbard recovered from early mistakes to finish with a 67. Koepka, who shot 70 and trailed Rai by six strokes, struggled on the par-5 fifth hole, where he found water hazards and made bogey. The Myrtle Beach Classic, an opposite-field event, grants the winner automatic entry into the PGA Championship next week, provided they are not already eligible. Rai, ranked No. 42 in the world, is the only player from the top 50 at the event. Despite his high standing, he dismissed the notion of a “divine right” in golf. “No matter what anyone’s world ranking is, whether you are Scottie Scheffler, No.#brooks_koepka #brandt_snedeker #aaron_rai #myrtle_beach_classic #dunes_golf_beach_club
