As he dropped in the final putt on the 18th hole at the Las Vegas Challenge for his first PDGA National Tour win, Team Discmania’s Eagle McMahon knew things were about to change.
”This is a start of the future,” McMahon stated as he accepted the award for his first place finish in 2018’s first NT event.
Even though McMahon was in the hunt from the beginning of the four-round event, it wasn’t until Saturday’s third round when he made his move. Round three saw McMahon shoot -13 (49) to take a one shot lead. The blistering 1073 rated round included 11 birdies and one eagle with no bogies thanks to accurate drives and solid putting.
The tournament was far from over and McMahon knew he needed a strong final round to break through on the National Tour. Thanks to 11 more birdies, all coming in the first 14 holes of the day, McMahon could comfortably play for the win down the stretch.
Eagle Relied on Stable Discs
We asked Eagle to list a few discs he used throughout the tournament. Here are his comments:
"My new Black Ink stamp S-line PD2. It was a crucial part in the windy rounds because of its overstability. A super flat S-line FD3 that my friend Claire dyed and gave to me. It is the flattest FD3 I have ever thrown. A old run of swirly S-line PD2 that I found in a box of warped reject discs at the warehouse that had scribbles on. It was my go to sidearm and distance driver. The Imperial Eagle Glow P-line P2. I putted very well throughout the event averaging 94% in the circle. The imperial Eagle is the most amazing feeling putter I have ever put in my hand."
Lizotte battles to top-five finish
McMahon wasn’t the only member of Team Discmania on the lead card during the final round of the LVC. Simon Lizotte found himself in contention after shooting a -13 (49) as well during round three.
Lizotte was five shots back of McMahon going into the final 18 holes, but couldn’t make up the gap before finishing in a tie for 5th for the tournament.
Strong showing for Team Discmania
While having two in the top five is always a welcome sight, seeing a strong performance from all team members was even greater. We’ve called this The Year of the Shield and if you haven’t taken it seriously by now, we suggest you pay attention.
Team Discmania in Open Division
1. Eagle McMahon -36
T5. Simon Lizotte -29
T22. Nate Perkins -16
T30. Grady Shue -14
T46. Tuomas Hyytiäinen -7
T51. Colten Montgomery -5
Team Discmania in Pro Masters 40+ Division
T24. Bob Kulchuk +11