Steve Allan made history at the Dick’s Sporting Goods Open Sunday, becoming the tournament’s first wire-to-wire winner after firing a 6-under 66 in the final round to secure a four-stroke victory.
The 51-year-old Australian finished at 18-under 198 at En-Joie Golf Course, capturing his second PGA Tour Champions title this season. Allan set the tone early with an opening 63 on Friday that gave him a two-shot advantage, then maintained his lead with a 69 on Saturday to stay one stroke ahead of Boo Weekley heading into Sunday.
Allan’s final round started somewhat shakily. He was just 1-under through seven holes with two birdies against a bogey before finding his rhythm on the back nine.
“It was tough, even yesterday, hanging in there, and today early on it was a bit rough with the driver,” Allan said. “In the rough a lot and just managed to hang in there. Then on the back nine, made a few putts.”
That’s putting it mildly. Allan caught fire midway through his round, birdieing five of six holes before parring his way home over the final five holes to secure the comfortable win.
Jason Caron finished second after posting a 68. Weekley couldn’t match his Saturday performance and shot 70 to tie for third at 13-under with Notah Begay III, who carded a 67. Soren Kjeldsen made a Sunday charge with a 64 to finish at 12-under, tied with Michael Wright (67) and Jeff Sluman (68).
This victory adds to Allan’s breakthrough win at The Galleri Classic in late March at Mission Hills in California. He’s quickly establishing himself as a force on the senior circuit after turning 50 last year.
The tournament was missing its three-time defending champion Padraig Harrington, who skipped the event to play in the Scottish Open. The Irishman is focusing on his upcoming schedule that includes The Open at Royal Portrush and The Senior Open at Royal Porthcawl.
