HUA HIN, Thailand – Scott Hend of Australia surged into lead of the Thailand Classic on Saturday by shooting a 6-under 66 in the third round despite a bogey on the last hole.
Hend used his powerful hitting to make five birdies and an eagle on the 13th before his only mishap on the 18th. His 15-under total of 201 put him one shot ahead of overnight leader Miguel Angel Jimenez and local favorite Thongchai Jaidee at the European Tour event.
Hend said “I played very solidly and putted quite well. I only made one mistake so it was pretty good. This is where you want to be, in the last group on a Sunday.
Jimenez had a bogey-free round of 69, while Thongchai carded 67.
The 51-year-old Jiminez said “I’m playing well and hitting it well. I missed a few putts (but) I’m creating lots of chances.”
Canada’s Richard T. Lee carded a 73 Saturday and dropped 17 spots into a tie for 20th.