Marksaeng takes lead at Dunlop Phoenix

text size

Nov. 22, 2008
By The Associated Press

MIYAZAKI, Japan (AP) -- Thailand's Prayad Marksaeng shot a 4-under 67 Saturday to take a two-stroke lead at the Dunlop Phoenix tournament.

Marksaeng birdied the first and last holes at the par-71 Phoenix Country Club, and had three birdies and a bogey in between to finish the third round at 8-under 205, two strokes ahead of second-round leader Tomohiro Kondo of Japan.

Kondo had a 70 Saturday and is two strokes ahead of American Brandt Snedeker (70), and compatriots Ryo Ishikawa (70) and Masaya Tomida (69).

Defending champion Ian Poulter of Britain shot a 66 for the day's best score, and moved into a tie for 14th at 1-under 212.

The $2.1 million event is one of the richer tournament's on the Japanese men's tour. Recent winners include Tiger Woods (2004 and '05) and Padraig Harrington (2006).