Aldrich Potgieter, 19, from South Africa, secured victory at the Bahamas Great Abaco Classic, to become the youngest winner in the history of the Korn Ferry Tour. Potgieter clinched the win, carding 10-under 278 for a two-stroke victory over Quade Cummins and Kyle Westmoreland. The 4-day Bahamas Great Abaco Classic was hosted at The Abaco Club, Jan 21- 24.
Starting the final round five shots behind Kyle Westmoreland, Potgieter’s incredible win included birdies on three of his first four holes, an eagle on the eighth, and birdies on four of the last six holes to secure a final-round score of 65. Parliamentary Secretary John Pinder II of the Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation said, “The Great Abaco Classic offers elite golfers the opportunity to compete at the world-class course situated at The Abaco Club at Winding Bay”. “The champion earns a coveted spot on the PGA Tour, while all participants have the chance to enjoy a stunning golf course with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.” “Engaging with the local culture, basking inthe natural beauty of The Abacos, and contending in this esteemed tournament create a truly unparalleled experience.”
Reflecting on his win, Potgieter said, “I was just trying to make the cut and improve on the status. I didn’t expect this today. We saw Nick Dunlap win last week, and that was a reminder that it can be done.”
Potgieter joins the ranks of other teenage winners on the Korn Ferry Tour, including Sungjae Im, Akshay Bhatia, and Jason Day. The 2024 Korn Ferry Tour season opened in January with two consecutive golf tournaments in The Bahamas — the Bahamas Great Exuma Classic, held 14 – 17 Jan. and the Bahamas Great Abaco Classic, 21 – 24 Jan. The Tour season continues with upcoming events in Panama, Colombia, Argentina, and Chile. The first U.S. event is scheduled for April 4-7 in Savannah, Georgia.
