Harman stays ahead after tough third round in Texas
SAN ANTONIO—Brian Harman survived 30-miles-per-hour wind by playing the final 13 holes without a bogey, giving him an even-par 72 and a three-shot lead in a Valero Texas Open so difficult that only six players managed to break par.
Harman had his chance to join them until narrowly missing a 12-foot birdie attempt on the final hole at TPC San Antonio.
He was more than satisfied to finish with his first 54-hole lead since he won the British Open two years ago at Royal Liverpool. That also was his last victory, and Harman has a great chance to end that drought.
“Just a tough day, man,” Harman said. “When you get around this place and the wind blows and the pins are tucked, it’s just a really hard day.”
He was at 12-under 204, three shots clear of Andrew Novak (69), with Tom Hoge (68) another shot behind going into the final round. Keith Mitchell had a 73 and was five behind. Mitchell and Novak need to win to get into the Masters next week.
Novak also is looking for his first PGA Tour title, and he has a wall to thank for his chances.
Lucky break
He hit 5-iron well to the right on the par-3 16th hole. It hit the wall below the grandstands and bouncing into the rough and onto the green about five feet for a most unlikely birdie.
“Obviously, not a great shot, but I know if it’s over there, there’s some space, it can be OK,” Novak said. “I didn’t expect it to kick back and go on the green. That was obviously ridiculous. Not the best swing and sometimes golf rewards you.”
There were not many rewards on this day, with a wind out in the opposite direction. No one could reach two of the par 5s on the Oaks course, and the average score was nearly two shots over par.
