Latin American Amateur Championship: Gabriel Palacios Chasing Top 10, Segundo Oliva Pinto Leads
Leaders Grapple as Competition Heats Up in Lima
The Latin American Amateur Championship (LAAC) at Lima Golf Club in Peru is shaping up to be an intense showdown. After three rounds, the top 50 scores and ties have breezed into the final stages, with Guatemala’s Gabriel Palacios maintaining a strong stance among the elite.
Palacios, Guatemala’s Hope for Glory
Arriving as the number one seed, Gabriel Palacios showcased promising form on day one, shooting a 68 (-2). Despite scoring 72 on both days two and three, he clutches the 12th spot with a total of 212 (+2). His consistent play has kept Guatemala in the limelight.
“Palacios has put in good performances, but the level of competition is high.” – Tribune Sports
Oliva Pinto Dictates the Pace
The outright leader, Argentine Segundo Oliva Pinto, delivered a sensational round on day three. A 64 (-6) has catapulted him into the lead with a total score of 205 (-5). Trailing him are Brazilian Eduardo Matarazzo and Argentine Andy Schonbaum, both tied for second on 206 (-4).
Guatemalan Prospects
- Matias Calderón, recent Central America and Panama Interclub champion, narrowly made the cut and stands in 45th place with a score of 220 (+10).
- Hugo Mayorga, another Guatemalan hopeful, is in 53rd position after rounds totaling 225 (+15).

The Elusive Trophy and Major Invitations
The grand finale on Sunday will determine not only the Latin America’s best amateur but also grant an exemption into the 2026 Augusta Masters, U.S. Open, and The Open Championship. The stakes couldn’t be higher.
Did you know?
Did you know that apart from prestigious invitations, the winner also receives full exemptions for the next two LAACs?
Pro Tip
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Final Round Anticipation
As the sun sets on day three, the field is buzzing with anticipation for the final round. Will Palacios climb into the top 10? Can Oliva Pinto maintain his lead? Don’t miss the exciting conclusion to the LAAC!
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Share your predictions for the final round in the comments below. Let’s golf!
