Big Easy grinds out a Memorial victory DUBLIN, Ohio — Ernie Els always wanted to win Jack Nicklaus’ tournament. He made sure no one else had a chance Sunday at the Memorial, taking only 11 putts over the final nine
Big Easy grinds out a Memorial victory
DUBLIN, Ohio — Ernie Els always wanted to win Jack Nicklaus’ tournament. He made sure no one else had a chance Sunday at the Memorial, taking only 11 putts over the final nine holes for a 6-under 66 and a four-shot victory.
Tied with Tiger Woods and Fred Couples midway through the final round, the Big Easy took the lead with a chip out of grass that covered his shoes to within 5 feet for a birdie.
Challenged by the Couples along the back nine of Muirfield Village, Els responded with one clutch putt after another, including a 15-foot par save on the 16th hole to keep a two-shot lead.
Els birdied the last two holes from inside 5 feet and finished at 18-under 270. The victory, worth $945,000, also should be enough to move him past Vijay Singh at No. 2 in the world ranking Monday.
Martin wins bizarre NASCAR race at Dover
DOVER, Del. — Mark Martin attributed his victory to good fortune and he wasn’t about to apologize.
“It was just a stroke of luck,” Martin said after winning a bizarre race Sunday at Dover International Speedway. “Everything worked out in our favor, but believe me, we were due.”
Martin managed to avoid one massive pileup, got a break when runaway leader Kasey Kahne crashed, and ended a long losing streak.
“Everything went our way today,” said Martin, winless in 72 NASCAR races since 2002. “The car got stronger and stronger.”
Martin averaged 97.042 mph in race slowed for 90 laps by 11 caution flags. There were 13 lead changes among nine drivers.
