State Lefthanders Championship

OXFORD — Dante Graham survived a long, hot day on the golf course, and a tough day on the back nine, to remain out front in the 59th Alabama Lefthanders Championship at Cider Ridge Golf Club.

Graham posted a 4-over 76 — six shots higher than his opening-round score — but actually extended his lead to six shots going into today's final round. He's at 2-over 146 for the championship.

"I don't know what the scores are, but I'm sure I let several people back in, Graham said.

Not really. Greg Payne of Leeds posted the best round of the day — 1-over 73 (34-39) — to pull into second place (152). Jason Barrett of Trussville, the closest to the lead starting the day, fell to third at 154 after a 79.

"Wow," Graham said when told of the scores. "Then, I'm very fortunate — very, very fortunate — because I couldn't keep the ball in play; I was hitting it all over the place for a couple holes."

By Al Muskewitz

Sports Writer

06-22-2008