Former BYU teammates Patrick Fishburn and Zach Blair surged into the lead during the third round of the Zurich Classic of New Orleans, the PGA Tour's exclusive team event. The duo shot an impressive 12-under 60 in better-ball play on Saturday, bringing their total score to 23-under 193 and securing a one-stroke lead over their closest competitors.
Fishburn and Blair, who have been playing golf together since their junior high school days in Ogden, Utah, displayed remarkable teamwork and skill on the wind-swept TPC Louisiana course. Fishburn's stellar performance, including three birdies and an eagle in the first five holes, set the tone for their exceptional round.
The Irish pair of Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry, who were tied for the lead after the initial two rounds, are now two strokes behind the leaders. Despite a slow start, McIlroy and Lowry rallied to birdie seven of their last 12 holes, finishing the day at 21 under alongside Ryan Brehm and Mark Hubbard.
Luke List and Henrik Norlander are hot on the heels of the leaders, trailing by just one stroke after a solid round of 62. List's impressive eagles on the second and 11th holes contributed to their strong performance.
As windy conditions are expected to persist for the final day of the tournament, the teams will face the challenge of alternate-shot play. The Canadians Nick Taylor and Adam Hadwin are also in contention at 20 under, setting the stage for an exciting finish to the Zurich Classic.
Fishburn and Blair's exceptional teamwork and consistent play have put them in prime position to secure their first PGA Tour victory. With the support of their shared history and mutual understanding on the course, the duo is poised to capitalize on this rare opportunity and make a strong push for the title.
Stay tuned for the thrilling conclusion of the Zurich Classic of New Orleans as the top teams battle it out in the ultimate test of skill and strategy on the challenging TPC Louisiana course.
