The 2026 Valspar Championship is set to thrill golf enthusiasts on Saturday, March 21, with the third round at Innisbrook's Copperhead Course in Palm Harbor, Florida. This tournament promises an exciting day of golf, featuring a star-studded lineup of players and intriguing storylines. Here's a breakdown of the key pairings and what to expect.
The Top Contenders
The featured grouping at 1:15 p.m. ET is a real treat for golf fans. Brandt Snedeker, a nine-time PGA Tour winner and this year's U.S. Presidents Cup team captain, is five strokes back of the lead. He's a veteran golfer who's been battling injuries, but his return is a heartwarming story. Gary Woodland, the 2019 U.S. Open champion, joins him, four strokes behind the lead. Woodland's recent battle with PTSD adds another layer of emotion to his performance.
Snedeker's determination to show his children he can still compete is a powerful motivator. He acknowledges the challenge ahead, knowing that consistent good golf is required to prove his worth. Woodland, on the other hand, is thrilled with his form, having hit it well on the range and in practice sessions. The question remains whether he can translate that success to the course.
The Rest of the Field
The tournament features a diverse range of players, each with their own unique stories and goals. John Parry and John VanDerLaan tee off at 7:35 a.m., followed by a string of talented golfers, including Keegan Bradley and Justin Thomas. The 1:55 p.m. grouping of Sungjae Im and David Lipsky is another highly anticipated match-up, with Im leading the tournament.
Broadcasting the Action
Golf Channel will broadcast the third round from 1-3 p.m. ET, followed by NBC from 3-6 p.m. ET. Additionally, PGA Tour Live on ESPN+ will provide exclusive early streaming coverage starting at 7:30 a.m. ET, ensuring fans can catch all the action.
Wagering Opportunities
For those looking to place bets, Fanatics Sportsbook offers a special welcome offer with the code 'SUBPAR'. This is a great opportunity for golf enthusiasts to get involved and potentially win some prizes.
The Final Word
The 2026 Valspar Championship is shaping up to be an unforgettable event, with a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars. The third round promises to be a thrilling display of golf, and fans can look forward to an exciting conclusion on Sunday.