Finch leads after birdie feast
2007-12-01 11:04
Queenstown - English golfer Richard Finch sank nine birdies to clinch a three shot lead on Saturday going into the final day of the New Zealand Open.
Finch posted an eight-under-par 64 in the third round of the European and Australasian co-sanctioned event at The Hills course near here.
The Englishman said it was a strange feeling leading a tournament after three rounds.
"This is a new position for me and I am unsure what it will be like because I haven't been there before. But I'll try to stick to my usual routines," he said.
Finch's success was built on his skill with the driver, which left him in a handy position to attack the greens with his irons.
"I am delighted with it. I certainly did not go out today planning to shoot 64 so I'm obviously pleased it happened."
Bowditch recovered
Finch ended the third day at 14-under 202 for the championship, three ahead of Friday's leader, Australian Steven Bowditch.
The Australian recovered from a triple bogey eight at the ninth hole to stay in touch with a gritty 71.
Australian Peter Fowler leapt up from a share of 41st to third on the back of a remarkable 10-under 62 which carried him to 10-under 206.
In fourth on 208 were Australian trio Paul Sheehan (73), Rick Kulacz (68), and Ewan Porter (70), while Welshman Kyron Sullivan was seventh on 209 after posting 69.