Amiti Aitelli blog

Gainey leads Phoenix Open after third round

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – Tommy Gainey took a one-stroke lead into the fourth round of the Phoenix Open, the frost-delayed tournament that will end Monday.

A two-time winner on the Nationwide Tour last season, Gainey has led after each of the first three rounds. He shot a 3-under 68 in the completion of the third round Sunday to reach 17 under at TPC Scottsdale.

"I just three-putted my 17th hole and I'm not too happy about that, but I'm still in great position," Gainey said. "I've just got to keep grinding."

Mark Wilson was second, and Bill Haas was 15 under. They also shot 68s.

"It's going to be fun this afternoon," Wilson said. "The course is not playing too difficult, not too much wind yet, and the ball is going far."

The leaders had a 35-minute break before starting the fourth round.

Phil Mickelson was 10 under after a 71.

The start Sunday was delayed a half-hour because of frost. In the first four days, about nine hours of playing time has been lost to frost and frozen turf.