HARRINGTON LOSES IN PLAYOFF TO ALKER ON PGA CHAMPIONS TOUR
Ireland’s Pádraig Harrington narrowly lost in a playoff at the Cologuard Classic on the PGA Champions Tour (Photo: PGA Champions Tour)
Pádraig Harrington came agonisingly close to adding another senior title but was narrowly defeated in a playoff by Steven Alker at the Cologuard Classic in Tucson, Arizona.
Harrington, a three-time major champion and one of the standout performers on the PGA Tour Champions in recent seasons, produced a composed and consistent display over the 54-hole event. Harrington closed with a final round 68 to tie for the lead with Alker on 15 under after the New Zealander shot up the leaderboard with a 65.
It is the second straight year Alker has won the event from a playoff and this time around he did it with an excellent iron approach into the 18th before holing for a winning birdie. It is Alker’s 11th win on the PGA Champions Tour.
As the final round unfolded, it became clear that the title would come down to a duel between Alker and Harrington, two of the tour’s most in-form players.
Alker, known for his remarkable consistency since joining the senior ranks, matched Harrington shot for shot down the closing stretch. In the playoff, the tension intensified. Harrington had an opportunity to seize control but was unable to convert, leaving the door open for Alker. He capitalised with trademark composure, executing a precise approach and holding his nerve on the green to secure victory.
American Zach Johnson closed with a 67 to claim third, two weeks after winning in Florida on his seniors debut.
Darren Clarke finished tied 21st on eight under.