U.S. Open: Clark Lamented Sparse Crowds as He Took Commanding Lead

Wyndham Clark held a six-stroke lead after the third round of the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills on Saturday. The late-afternoon galleries were sparse, which Clark described as unfortunate for key moments.

"It was kind of unfortunate that we're finishing in the dark and people weren't really out there because there were some obviously key, big moments, and it did kind of get a little flat, so yeah, unfortunately."

The Logistical Challenge

Shinnecock Hills Golf Club on Long Island, New York, is known for logistical challenges due to limited access for large crowds. Many spectators travel from New York City via the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR).

Transportation constraints contributed to reduced attendance in the evening, according to the USGA. The LIRR provided extra trains, but the round trip from Manhattan takes over four hours. Saturday's last train from Shinnecock to Grand Central departed at 9:30 p.m., arriving after midnight. An earlier departure at 6:07 p.m. allowed fans to return by 9 p.m.

Final Round Outlook

The final pairing of Matt Fitzpatrick and Clark teed off at 3:45 p.m. local time.

Clark expressed hope for larger crowds on Sunday as he carries a substantial lead into the final round.