By Mike McAllister, PGATOUR.COM

HONOLULU -- During his two-month offseason, Brian Gay spent more time on the range and less time on the course, working on some mechanics in his swing to allow him to pick up more distance off the tee. He also fell sick, a cold he didn't shake until earlier this week.

Oh, and he changed out his driver, 3 wood and hybrid. He's not used to making those kind of significant equipment overhauls.

Gay

"Always got that question mark, a little bit of uncertainty," Gay said.

Not as much uncertainties now, though. Gay posted a bogey-free 5-under 65 early in Saturday's third round that moved him up the leaderboard. At 7 under for the tournament, he was three shots off the lead held by Matt Every, who had yet to tee off.

Obviously, he wasn't sure how far back he would be at the end of Saturday. But at least he has a chance going into the final round.

"It's early but I got myself in position to where if I get a low one tomorrow, I can get up there," Gay said.

In the past five years, Gay's highest ranking in driving distance was 183rd in 2009, but he's ranked in the top 10 in driving accuracy in four of those years.

But he worked on a different angle with his driver coming through the ball. Along with a change to a new TaylorMade driver, he's already felt a difference.

"I think I'm hitting it a little bit farther," he said.