PHOENIX – Unheralded American Tommy Gainey, seeking his first PGA title, completed a six-under par 65 on Saturday to seize a one-stroke lead after the second round of the frost-disrupted Phoenix Open. Gainey, who fired a 63 in the final group to lead after the first round ended late Friday, stood on 14-under par 128 after 36 holes at the $6.1 million event.
A man who once worked on a production line wrapping water heaters for transit now finds himself in contention for a PGA title. “It would be unforgettable,” Gainey said. “It’s something I’ve worked for my whole life. I’m just trying to take advantage of my chance.” Mark Wilson was one stroke back with Bill Haas third on 130 and Chris Couch fourth on 131.
Reigning Masters champion Phil Mickelson, who fired a second-round 65, and Rickie Fowler, who had five birdies and an eagle in the final seven holes to card a tournament-best 62, shared fifth on 132. Mickelson holed a 30-foot birdie putt at the par-3 16th, thrilling the huge and raucous crowd there that is a staple of this event.
“It’s Saturday of the Phoenix Open. It’s always fun,” Mickelson said. “To see that go in with the crowd right there was a great feeling.”
