BUENOS AIRES, Argentina – The 119th Visa Argentina Open presented by Macro is underway at the prestigious Jockey Club de San Isidro, with Mason Andersen and Tommy Cocha among those setting the pace after a compelling first round. The tournament, a cornerstone of Argentine golf, is also a qualifying event for The Open Championship.

Tight Leaderboard at Historic Venue

Six players are currently vying for the lead at the Jockey Club, a course steeped in history, having been founded in 1882 and designed by Dr. Alister Mackenzie. The tournament runs from February 26th to March 1st.

“I hit very well with the drive, I was also able to uncover many greens, which is very important on this course, and I was firm with the putter. It is the first time I have played in Jockey, there is an incredible atmosphere in a club with a lot of history and an exceptional course. I am very happy to play this tournament, it is one of the most important we have on the calendar, especially for the possibility it gives you of qualifying for The Open,”

Mason Andersen

Andersen, the 2024 Olivos Golf Club champion, praised the course and the atmosphere.

Argentine Contenders Emerge

Among the Argentinian players, Tommy Cocha and Martín Contini share 21st place with a score of 66 (-4). Jorge Fernández Valdés is further down the leaderboard in 39th place with a score of 67.

“Very happy for the return, I didn’t close as well as I expected, but it’s a good start. I really like this course, I sense very comfortable playing here. The greens are quite playable, but it’s the Jockey and if you go on the wrong side, it punishes you. This tournament is important to gain confidence, it’s essential to play well every week because a good season on the Korn Ferry Tour can change your life,”

Tommy Cocha

“I played well, the first day of the Open is always important, you feel the nerves at the beginning, I was able to create many birdies and it turned around. I had bad luck on the 17th, the bunker was badly raked and I had a fried egg and I ended up making a double. It was a well-worked round, between ups and downs, but I am happy. Having qualified on Monday motivated me and I feel that it is a great opportunity to have a good result and continue playing on this circuit.”

Martín Contini

Tournament Details & Qualifying Opportunity

The Jockey Club is hosting the event for the twentieth time. The tournament is organized by the Argentine Golf Association and is part of the Korn Ferry Tour, serving as a pathway to the PGA TOUR.

This year’s edition holds added significance as it coincides with the centenary of the Argentine Golf Association (AAG).

A latest Ford Territory is up for grabs for an amateur player who achieves a hole-in-one on the 17th hole, and also for the professional who achieves the same feat. This prize has been awarded three times previously, in 2018, 2019, and 2022.

The winner of the tournament will earn direct qualification to The 154th Open Championship, to be held at Royal Birkdale from July 16 to 19, 2026, for the player who does not already have an exemption.

Stay Updated

The Argentine Golf Association has launched a dedicated website for the tournament, offering comprehensive information and live broadcast coverage on Saturday and Sunday starting at 3:00 p.m.

FAQ

• When does the tournament complete? March 1, 2026.
• Where is the tournament being held? Jockey Club de San Isidro, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
• What is at stake for the winner? Direct qualification to The Open Championship.