Cook extends lead to 3 strokes at RSM Classic

Austin Cook increased his lead to three shots heading into the final round of the RSM Classic after shooting a 4-under-par 66 on Saturday at St. Simon Island, Ga.

The PGA Tour rookie, who seized the lead with a 62 on Friday, had five birdies and bogey on the Sea Island Golf Club’s Seaside Course to give him a three-round total of 18-under 194.

Alone in second place is Chris Kirk, who is at 197 after shooting 64 on Saturday. Another stroke behind him is Brian Gay, who shot a third-round 69.

The low score of the day was provided by J.J. Spaun, whose 62 enabled him to move into sole possession of fourth place at 199.

But the focus is on Cook, who started the final round of the 2015 Houston Open in second place and played in the final group. He shot a 75 to finish in 11th place.

“Back then my game was good as well,” Cook said, “but mentally I’ve grown a lot and matured a lot and been able to kind of just let small things on the golf course roll off my shoulder instead of getting tied up in one little small mistake.

“I think with an extra year on the Web.com Tour this past year, I really grew mentally and with my game, just kind of got more confidence. I was able to put myself in contention on the Web.com more this year than I have in the past. I think I’ve just learned from experiences on the Web to help me grow out here.”

A bogey on No. 9 was the only blemish for Kirk, who had seven birdies to stay in contention.

“I’ll bet I’ve got 300-plus rounds in on Seaside, so I’m not saying that will make me do any better, but at least I’ll know what to expect,” said Kirk, who lives in Georgia.

Webb Simpson was in contention, seven shots off the lead after two rounds, but withdrew before Saturday’s round to be with his ailing father.

“Thanks to @Love3d for being such a great tourney host. I WD due to my Dad being sick and living his last days. Thanks for all the support,” Simpson tweeted after the third round was complete.

Two-time Masters champion Bubba Watson is trying to rebound from a disastrous 2016-17 season, and he put himself in contention in this event with a 64 on Friday. But he had six bogeys and a double bogey on Saturday to end up with a round of 76.