PGA Tour Champions: Jerry Kelly Secures First Title in Two Years
A Thrilling Finish at the SAS Championship
In a nail-biting finale, Jerry Kelly emerged victorious at the SAS Championship, claiming his first PGA Tour Champions title in two years. Kelly’s bogey-free round of 5-under 67 was enough to edge out Padraig Harrington, who narrowly missed an 8-foot par putt that would have forced a playoff.
Kelly’s Journey to Victory
Kelly’s path to victory was not without its challenges. Despite holding a two-shot lead on the back nine at Prestonwood Country Club, he failed to birdie the par-5 17th and then three-putted from 40 feet on the 18th, sending his first putt some 10 feet by the hole. However, Harrington’s subsequent mistakes handed Kelly the win.
Harrington’s Late Collapse
Harrington, who started the final round with a three-shot lead, appeared poised to claim the title. However, a wayward shot on the 18th from the fairway, followed by a chip about 8 feet by, ultimately led to a lipped-out par putt. This costly error allowed Kelly to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.
A Long-Awaited Win for Kelly
This marks Kelly’s 12th win on the 50-and-older circuit, and his first since the Shaw Charity Classic in August 2022. After struggling with a wrist injury and rheumatoid arthritis for most of the year, Kelly expressed relief and satisfaction at finally returning to the winner’s circle.
Playoff Picture Takes Shape
The SAS Championship served as the final tournament before the Charles Schwab Cup playoffs, which commence next week for the top 72 players. Woody Austin, despite a disappointing 75 in the final round, tied for 17th and moved up two spots to No. 71. Lee Janzen secured the 72nd spot, while Ernie Els enters the postseason as the No. 1 seed.
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