Harrington leads Grand Slam

TUESDAY, OCT. 23: Padraig Harrington holds a two-shot lead heading into tomorrow’s final round of the PGA Grand Slam of Golf at Port Royal.

The Irish three-time Major winner was a late call-up for Open champion Ernie Els, who injured his ankle, but is just 18 holes from winning the $600,000 winner’s cheque after shooting a superb five-under 66.

After a steady start Harrington really came alive on the back nine collecting four birdies, although he did bogey the notoriously-tough par-three 16th after failing to make the green.

Despite his lead, Harrington will face stiff competition in the final round.

The charismatic Bubba Watson is his closest challenger after a round of 68, while Webb Simpson is just one shot further back on two under.

Defending champion Keegan Bradley recovered from being four down after six to finish one over and six shots off the lead but is still not out of the picture.

Harrington said: “It’s going to be really difficult. But I prefer it when my playing partners are playing well and making birdies — a rising tide raises all the ships.

“We had some good banter out there today but it will probably get a bit more serious tomorrow with nine holes to play.”