Neal Shipley seized control of the inaugural 2026 Biltmore Championship Asheville with a nine-under 62 on Friday, moving into sole possession of the lead at the halfway point. The 25-year-old PGA Tour rookie produced the low round of the day in North Carolina as he pursues his first Tour victory.
Shipley will play Saturday’s third round alongside Ben Kohles and Ricky Castillo in the final tee time from the first tee at 9:45 a.m. ET. Kohles enters the weekend directly behind Shipley as he also seeks a breakthrough win. The 36-year-old has enjoyed a strong 2026 season featuring two top-10 finishes and five top-25 results, but his first PGA Tour title remains elusive.
The third round begins at 7:33 a.m. ET, with groups starting from both the first and 10th tees. Shipley and Kohles will be among the final players to tee off, giving the leaders an opportunity to assess the earlier scores before beginning their rounds. Saturday’s television coverage will start on CNBC from noon to 12:30 p.m. ET before moving to Golf Channel from 12:30 to 3 p.m.; a simulcast will also be available through GolfChannel.com and the Golf Channel app.
The Biltmore Championship’s weekend leaderboard remains finely positioned for a first-time winner. Shipley’s 62 has given him the advantage, while Kohles’ recent consistency makes him the most immediate challenger as the tournament heads into its pivotal third round.