26 Jan 2009

American golfer Pat Perez wins Bob Hope Classic

4:54 pm on 26 January 2009

The American golfer Pat Perez has taken advantage of a final-round collapse by overnight leader Steve Stricker to win his maiden PGA Tour title by three shots at the Bob Hope Classic.

Three strokes off the pace at the start of the day, Perez survived a up tough back nine to card a three-under-par 69 on the Palmer Private course in California.

The 32 year-old eagled the par-five 18th for a 33-under total finishing three ahead of compatriot John Merrick.

Stricker had to settle for a share of third place with Canadian Mike Weir after dropping seven shots in two holes to finish at 28 under.