Golfing journeyman Rafael Campos of Puerto Rico savored a week like no other at the Butterfield Bermuda Championship. The 36-year-old welcomed his first child, a daughter named Paola, on Monday. He then jetted off to the island paradise to compete in the PGA Tour event, starting Thursday.
Campos made the most of his hectic but joyous itinerary by firing a career-best round of 9-under par 62 on Saturday. His spectacular play vaulted him into a tie atop the leaderboard with Andrew Novak at 16-under par overall, heading into Sunday’s final round.
Campos Battles Elements and Emotions
The veteran golfer, ranked 147th in the FedEx Cup standings, showed grit and perseverance battling blustery winds gusting over 40 mph on the challenging Port Royal Golf Course. With his PGA Tour playing privileges in jeopardy for next season, Campos dug deep to post seven birdies and an eagle, offsetting two bogeys.
Choking back tears discussing his emotional week, Campos revealed the tough decision to induce labor for his wife on Monday. The move allowed him to be present for his daughter’s birth before making the trip to compete in Bermuda.
“I do want to provide for them as much as I can, so we’re here and fortunate everything went well. It’s a bonus that I’m doing well this week.”
– Rafael Campos on balancing family and golf
Campos Seeks Breakthrough Win
The fifth-year PGA Tour pro has never captured a title, with his best finish a tie for second at the 2021 Puerto Rico Open. Playing this week with a heavy heart but newfound purpose, Campos looks to author a Hollywood ending with a jubilant return to his family as a champion.
Reflecting on his priorities, the doting dad put golf in perspective, saying:
“I had a daughter on Monday and it doesn’t matter if I play bad, they don’t care. If I end up losing my job, I lost my job and I’ve got a beautiful daughter and beautiful wife back home just waiting for me to hopefully give ’em a hug.”
– Rafael Campos
Closely Contested Leaderboard
While Campos shined, he wasn’t the only player to go low on moving day. Co-leader Andrew Novak also carded a 62, while Justin Lower sits just one shot back after a 68. Several other contenders remain within striking distance.
The stage is set for a dramatic Sunday shootout in Bermuda. Win or lose, Rafael Campos has already demonstrated what matters most – love and dedication to family. A victory would provide a fairytale finish, but Campos knows he’s already holding the greatest gift of all in his arms.
