Pat Perez Captures 1st PGA Win - Stricker Implodes

Formerly volcanic Pat Perez maintained long enough to win the Bob Hope Classic for his first PGA victory. His 3 foot eagle putt at the 18th hole sealed the win over charging John Merrick, who had moved in front for a bit on the back nine. Perez finished at -33 after a 3 under 69 today. Merrick's 2nd place finish was his best yet on tour. His final round was a 67 to end at -30. For the first time all week wind was a factor and coupled with tougher pin placements the assault on par was quelled somewhat.

Stricker, at 16th, was the highest ranked player in the event. He led after yesterday's 4th round and set the consecutive round PGA scoring record having gone 61-62 in rounds 3 and 4. Today he came apart like a fifty dollar suit. A triple bogey at 7 and a quad at 10 sealed his fate. He had gone OB on 10 and found the drink on both holes. He made the request for a new pencil at 11. His request was immediately granted. All this after birdieing the 6th hole and taking a three stroke lead over Perez. He finished in a tie for 3rd with Mike Weir at -28. Full field scores.

Perez won $918,000 for his efforts. Call me silly, but I'd have shaved some prize money further down the line to have the winner collect a cool $1,000,000. Seems like better marketing to allow the tournament to advertise a million dollar first prize.

FYI, the amateur team #107 took their portion of the event at -71. Sounds like some of the sandbagger tournaments I've played in.

And............Mr. Hope, Shanks for the memories.


Til' next,