Weathering the Storm: Javier Feliú Triumphs at Club Zaudín in Circuito Albatros Stage Two

SEVILLE, Spain — In a sport where the elements often dictate the outcome as much as the swing, the second leg of the VI Circuito Albatros provided a masterclass in resilience. This past Saturday, nearly 80 golfers descended upon the Club Zaudín Golf, only to be met by a relentless combination of wind and rain that threatened to derail the morning’s proceedings.

Despite the tempestuous conditions, the field remained steadfast. For the competitors of the Circuito Albatros, the weather was not a deterrent but a backdrop for an “epic” morning of competition, testing both the technical skill and the mental fortitude of every player on the course.

Feliú Claims the Scratch Prize

While many struggled to find their rhythm amidst the gusts, Javier Feliú rose above the chaos. Feliú delivered a clinical performance, navigating the challenging layout of Club Zaudín to secure the prestigious ‘Scratch’ Prize. He finished the day with 26 points, a score that stood as a testament to his precision and ability to manage a golf ball in high-wind scenarios.

In professional and high-level amateur golf, the Scratch Prize is the ultimate marker of raw skill, awarded to the player with the lowest gross score regardless of handicap. To post a winning score under such adverse weather suggests a level of consistency that will make Feliú a formidable opponent as the circuit progresses.

The Defiance of Paul Euan

Beyond the leaderboard, the day was defined by moments of sheer sporting character. Among the most talked-about figures was English golfer Paul Euan, whose approach to the weather was as unconventional as it was bold. While his peers bundled up in waterproofs and relied on umbrellas to shield themselves from the Seville rain, Euan opted for a minimalist ensemble: bermuda shorts, a short-sleeved polo, and his golf bag slung over his shoulder.

Walking the entire course without an umbrella in the middle of a storm is a rarity in modern golf, but Euan’s grit was rewarded. He claimed the “closest ball” (bola más cercana) mixed prize on the 11th hole, proving that a relaxed mindset—and perhaps a disregard for the cold—can pay dividends on the green.

For those unfamiliar with the format, the “closest ball” prize is a common tournament feature that rewards the player who lands their tee shot nearest to the pin on a designated par-3 hole, adding a layer of excitement and individual glory to the overall stroke play.

The Road to Almería: Circuit Context

The VI edition of the Circuito Albatros is shaping up to be a marathon of endurance and skill. As reported by El Desmarque, this 2026 season consists of 15 tournaments, designed to test golfers across various terrains and conditions throughout the Iberian Peninsula.

Having successfully navigated the second event in Seville, the circuit now moves forward in its quest toward the grand finale. The season is scheduled to culminate on November 1, 2026, in Almería, where the final standings will determine the overall champion of the sixth edition.

The consistency of venues like Club Zaudín—which also hosted the opening of the 2025 season—highlights the circuit’s commitment to utilizing some of Spain’s most respected golfing infrastructure. The transition from the rainy mornings of May to the anticipated heat of an Almería November will require the players to be versatile in their preparation.

Key Takeaways from Stage Two

• Resilience: Nearly 80 golfers competed despite severe wind and rain.
• Top Performer: Javier Feliú won the Scratch Prize with a commanding 26 points.
• Notable Mention: Paul Euan won the closest ball prize on hole 11 while playing in summer attire during a storm.
• Season Outlook: The circuit continues its 15-tournament stretch, concluding in Almería on November 1.

As the Circuito Albatros moves into its next phase, the lessons learned at Club Zaudín—specifically the ability to adapt to unpredictable weather—will likely be the deciding factor for those eyeing the trophy in November. The grit shown this weekend in Seville sets a high bar for the remainder of the season.

Next Checkpoint: The circuit will announce the venue and date for the third tournament in the coming days. Stay tuned to official circuit communications for updated tee times and registration details.

Do you think weather should be a deciding factor in amateur rankings, or is the ability to play in a storm a skill in itself? Let us know in the comments below.