Padraig Harrington surged ahead on Saturday at the SAS Championship, securing a three-shot lead going into the final round. The 52-year-old Irishman, a three-time major winner, shot a brilliant 5-under-par 67 at Prestonwood Country Club in Cary, North Carolina, setting himself up for a strong finish in the PGA TOUR Champions event.
Harrington, known for his sharp iron play and strategic course management, took full advantage of his experience. His round was highlighted by a consistent performance on the greens, where he rolled in several key putts to maintain his momentum. He finished with five birdies, three of which came in the final five holes, giving him the cushion he needed at the top of the leaderboard. Harrington’s total score of 14-under 130 places him comfortably ahead of his closest challengers.
Sitting three shots behind Harrington is Y.E. Yang, the first Asian golfer to win a major, who posted a solid 69 on Saturday, bringing his total to 11-under. Yang’s consistent play, particularly his accuracy off the tee, has kept him in contention for the title.
In third place is Doug Barron, who fired a 67 to sit at 10-under. Barron has been in excellent form on the Champions Tour this season and is considered one of the players to watch heading into the final day.
Several notable players, including Steven Alker and Steve Stricker, who have been dominant forces on the PGA TOUR Champions circuit, are further down the leaderboard but still within striking distance. Stricker, currently leading the Charles Schwab Cup standings, will need a strong final round to challenge Harrington’s lead.
Harrington’s commanding position sets him up well to claim another title on the senior tour. A win at the SAS Championship would not only add to his impressive career tally but also boost his standing in the Charles Schwab Cup Playoffs as the season approaches its conclusion.
With Sunday’s final round looming, all eyes will be on Harrington to see if he can maintain his composure and secure victory, while challengers like Yang and Barron look to mount a final push.
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