Jim Herman shoots 62, leads by one at Barbasol Championship
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NICHOLASVILLE, KENTUCKY - JULY 20: Jim Herman of the United States reacts after a putt on the 11th green during the third round of the Barbasol Championship at Keene Trace Golf Club on July 20, 2019 in Nicholasville, Kentucky. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
Jim Herman leads by one after 54 holes at Barbasol
NICHOLASVILLE, Ky. -- Helped by President Donald Trump's putting advice, Jim Herman had two eagles in a 10-under 62 to maintain a one-stroke lead Saturday in the PGA TOUR's Barbasol Championship.
Trump's regular golf partner while working as an assistant professional at Trump National Bedminster in New Jersey, Herman changed to a conventional putting grip and clubhead at the president's suggestion following a recent round.
"He gave me a good talking to and told me to use a different style if it's not working," Herman said Friday after shooting his second straight 65 to top the leaderboard. "Some great advice, so I appreciate it."
On Saturday, Herman made an 11-foot eagle putt on the par-5 eighth and a 10-footer on the par-5 15th. He also had six birdies to get to 24-under 192 at rain-softened Keene Trace.
Encouraged by Trump to pursue a playing career, the 41-year-old Herman won the 2016 Shell Houston Open for his lone TOUR title -- a victory that followed a friendly round with Trump.
Kelly Kraft was second after a 61. He also eagled the 15th, holing a 65-footer.
Austin Cook (63) and Bill Haas (65) were four strokes back at 20 under.
David Toms, two shots back after a second-round 64, had a 73 to drop into a tie for 32nd at 11 under. The 52-year-old Toms is making his third PGA TOUR start of the season.
The winner will receive a spot in the PGA Championship.