Chandler Blanchet and Kensei Hirata share the lead at the Butterfield Bermuda Championship with an impressive 13-under 129, but Bermuda has forecast a significant wind challenge for the weekend. The leaderboard could be shaken up, as wind is the true game-changer on the Port Royal Golf Course.
What a performance from both: Blanchet followed up his stunning opening round 62 with a 4-under 67, securing his shared top position with a strong birdie on the 18th – after a precise approach shot from inside six feet (1.8 meters). Japan's Hirata shone with a bogey-free 7-under 64 and seven birdies – the first time in his PGA Tour rookie season that he's contended at the top.
When the Wind Shifts, So Does the Game
But appearances can be deceiving. What has been a true birdie-fest so far could turn into a tense battle of nerves starting Saturday. The forecast is clear: significantly stronger gusts are expected. Then, it won't just be about power drives, but absolute precision, creative shot-making, and steely nerves to tame the exposed ocean-side course.
Just one shot behind are Seamus Power, Eric Cole, Danny Walker, Corey Conners, and Ben Silverman at 12-under 130. Another five players are at 11-under – the leaderboard is so tight, every stroke counts. The cut, by the way, fell at 5-under 137, further underscoring the extremely low scores of the opening days.
Showdown on the Green
Hirata, Blanchet, and Power will tee off together in the decisive third round on Saturday at 10:51 AM ET (4:51 PM CEST). Live coverage will be available from 1–4 p.m. ET (7:00–10:00 PM CEST). The Butterfield Bermuda Championship is part of the FedExCup Fall, where it's not just about prestige, but also crucial points for the 2027 season. Every stroke will be fiercely contested!
