In a remarkable display at the Senior PGA Championship, Stewart Cink fired a 9-under 63 to clinch victory by six strokes at Concession Golf Club in Bradenton, Florida. This impressive win marks Cink's first senior major title and his third victory of the year on the PGA Tour Champions.
Entering the final round one stroke behind, Cink quickly made his presence felt. His momentum surged with an eagle on the par-5 seventh hole, followed by two consecutive birdies that solidified his lead as he closed out the front nine. Cink then struck again on the par-3 11th with a stunning 35-foot birdie putt that showcased his precision and skill.
Over a remarkable five-hole stretch, Cink went 5-under par, leaving his competition scrambling for second place. He added another birdie on the par-5 13th and sank an 18-foot birdie putt on the 14th, further extending his lead.
Ben Crane finished strong with a closing round of 68, securing second place in his debut at the Senior PGA Championship. Keith Horne of South Africa, who began the day with a one-shot lead, struggled to keep pace with Cink and fell back after a double bogey on the par-4 12th hole.
Cink, known for his 2009 British Open win in a dramatic playoff against Tom Watson, continues to impress on the PGA Tour Champions. Throughout 16 rounds this season, he has yet to post a score over par, with three victories and a runner-up finish to his name. His worst performance this year has been a tie for sixth.
He completed the championship at 19-under 269, just one stroke shy of the record for lowest score to par set by Sam Snead in 1973 at the Senior PGA Championship.
Both Scott Hend and Steve Allan, hailing from Australia, wrapped up their tournaments with rounds of 71, sharing third place overall.
Looking forward, the PGA Tour Champions will continue to highlight Cink’s journey in upcoming events as fans anticipate how he will further his impressive season.