Johannesburg – Oliver Bekker fired a third round 66 to take a two stroke lead on 14 under par in the Telkom PGA Championship at Country Club Johannesburg, on Saturday.
Bekker's six under par round in the Sunshine Tour event featured an eagle and four birdies, and regained a lead he last held in the first round.
“This is exactly what I needed,” said Bekker.
“I hit the ball the best I've done the whole week. I didn't make all the putts I had a chance of making. But it felt good and I'm really happy about the round.”
It was a round that started well when he eagled the par-five third hole, hitting a rescue club from behind a tree in the left rough which nearly went in the hole.
Even a stumble on the par-five 18th did not cost him as he squandered a birdie chance there to finish with a par.
“This is my first bogey-free round of the week, which I'm very happy about.
“I've been playing well the last few weeks so hopefully this is my week.” Bekker's nearest challenger is JJ Senekal, who added a 66 of his own for a total of 12 under.
“I've been working hard on my swing with my father and I'm very positive,” said Senekal.
“He takes me to the range every day and works really hard with me. It's small things that creep into your game and if you can get that out of your swing then it all becomes more positive,” said Senekal.
Rhys West, James Kingston and Ulrich van den Berg are also not out of it on 11 under par.
Bekker - a three time winner on tour - is looking very comfortable on this course, and in the lead.
“You still have to shoot a good round to win.
“I'll set myself a target and if I can get there or better then great. As soon as you start thinking about just staying ahead you become defensive and don't take your opportunities.” – Sapa