Clarke outlasts Triplett in playoff

Michael Clark II, who returned to the PGA Tour this year, beat Kirk Triplett on the fourth playoff hole today to win the rain-delayed John Deere Classic.

Clark captured his first title with a birdie on the par-4, 18th hole.

He and Triplett each shot a tournament-record 19-under 265 in regular play. Clark shot a 4-under 67 and Triplett a 70 for the final round. Charles Howell, the NCAA champion who recently turned pro, shot 66 to finish third at was 18-under 266.

Triplett went into the final round at the Tournament Players Club at Deere Run Sunday as the leader. He promptly made two bogeys, leaving him 2-over for the round through nine holes.

Play was interrupted twice for more than three hours in total. Players stayed on the course for just 17 minutes after the second delay, then were chased into the clubhouse for good by thunder and heavy rain.

Clark, who spent his previous two years on the Buy.com Tour, won a $468,000 purse. Triplett earned $280,800.

Triplett birdied his final hole of regulation today to tie Clark and set up the playoff.

Clark held a one-stroke lead when the rain forced players off the course Sunday.

"You always dream of having the lead Sunday night, just not in this situation,'' he said.

The only contender who finished his round Sunday was Steve Lowery, who carded a 63 for a 268 total.

Email this page to a friend | Return to top of page