American Ryan Gerard made a single bogey and fired ten birdies to close with a 9-under 63 and take a share of the lead at 16-under at the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open.

Gerard, who is currently 57th in the Official World Golf Ranking, became eligible on the DP World Tour by winning the Barracuda Championship earlier this year and is aiming to climb up into the top-50 to secure a place at next year’s Masters.

“That’s the reason I flew a long way to come here and hopefully punch a ticket to The Masters. That’s the goal,” said Gerard.

“Competing in pressure situations are the most fun you can have as a professional golfer. I’m someone who loves competing and hates losing. If I win I’m sure I’ll have a chance to go and play at Augusta National come April.”

South African Casey Jarvis started the day with the solo lead and carded a bogey-free 68 to retain a share of the lead.

“I love it. I’ve won two events on the Sunshine Tour and that gives me confidence for this final round,” said Jarvis, who won November’s Hyundai Open and Vodacom Origins of Golf.

“I’m really looking forward to it, and to being in the final group on the DP World Tour for a change. It’s going to be fun.”

France’s Alexander Levy who lost his DP World Tour card last season and is playing on a sponsor invite this week, shot a bogey-free 66 and lies in third place at 15-under one ahead of South African Jayden Schaper who made an eagle at the par-4 13th, eight birdies and two bogeys for an 8-under 64.

Spain’s Manuel Elvira made two bogeys for a 69 and rounds out the top-5 at 12-under.

Related: Finding your golf recipe with Tim Cooke

Director of Instruction

For the latest news in the golfing world, follow us on X.