Hurley Extends Lead in Greenbrier Classic


After taking the halfway lead with a 7-under 63 Friday, Billy Hurley III carded a 67 to forge a two-stroke lead heading into the final round of the Greenbrier Classic. The $6.5 million PGA Tour event is taking place on the White Course at the Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs, W.Va.

Hurley, a 32-year-old Virginian in search of his first Tour win, posted five birdies and two bogeys to reach 12-under 198, two strokes ahead of two-time major champion Angel Cabrera. The Argentine shot a 64 Saturday.

Hurley, a former U.S. Navy officer who took the lead on the Fourth of July, is hoping for a career breakthrough on Sunday. "I've been working for a long time to win on the PGA Tour," Hurley said. "I figure if I shoot the lowest score tomorrow, I can't lose."

He's hoping his military training will help provide a sense of relaxation in the final round. "I'm going to keep doing what I'm doing," he added.

"I just want to put my mind in position so that I can play well. I slept fine last night. The benefit of the Navy is you learn how to sleep anywhere. I think I'll sleep fine tonight, too."

Three behind is Kevin Chappell, who shot a 69, while four back are Steve Stricker (68), Michael Thompson (64), Cameron Tringale (64), Will Wilcox (65), Joe Durant (66), Camilo Villegas (67) and Chris Stroud (70).

Defending champion, Jonas Blixt, opened with a first-round leading 64 but followed up with a 73. On Saturday the Swede rebounded with a 68 to rise into a tie for 19th at 5-under 205.

For complete scoring details, visit http://www.pgatour.com/leaderboard.html.