Clark Inches Closer to 1st Career Victory

Jaime Aron

Fort Worth, Texas. Tim Clark birdied the 18th hole for a four-under 66 and a two-stroke lead going into the final round of the Crowne Plaza Invitational on Saturday.

Clark moved ahead of playing partner Steve Stricker with a birdie on the 11th hole, then strung together pars until No. 18.

The South African was at 17-under 193 as he chased his first US PGA Tour victory. With $12.7 million in career earnings on the tour, Clark has the dubious distinction of winning the most money without winning an event — 183 so far. He’s finished second six times, including this tournament last year, getting nipped when Phil Mickelson birdied the final hole.

“I had a great final round last year. I’m going to need that again,” Clark said. “I’m in a different position being in the last group. I just have to stay calm.

Stricker, Steve Marino and Jason Day were at 195. Marino and Day are also seeking their first tour wins.

Marino was the day’s big mover, shooting a 62 for the best round so far. It felt even better since his mother, who grew up in Fort Worth, was in the gallery with a group of her childhood friends. He got them shouting with birdies on Nos. 11-13, all set up by approach shots within five feet.

“I just felt really in control of everything,” Marino said. “It was a great feeling.”

Day shot his third straight 65 and has a local tie, too — he moved to Fort Worth last year and plays often at Colonial Country Club.

Stricker started the day in the lead after consecutive 63s. He birdied the second hole, then had nothing but pars for a 69.

Vijay Singh got off track with consecutive bogeys early in his round. He finished at 69 and was alone at 13 under in his first appearance in the event since pulling out after criticizing the tournament for letting Annika Sorenstam in the field in 2003.

Associated Press