American Kerr captures Safeway Classic

AFP, August, 2008

PORTLAND, Oregon (AFP) — Cristie Kerr birdied the first hole of a three-way playoff Sunday to capture the 1.7 million dollar LPGA Safeway Classic.

Kerr closed with a 7-under-par 65 to get to 13-under 203 and force a playoff with Helen Alfredsson and Sophie Gustafson at Columbia Edgewater Country Club.

A birdie from 15 feet at the first playoff hole gave Kerr her 11th career LPGA Tour victory and 255,000 dollars in first place prize money.

Alfredsson entered Sunday's final round with a one-stroke lead and closed with a 69. Gustafson signed for a 68 to earn a spot in the playoff.

Katherine Hull, who captured the Canadian Women's Open last week, finished fourth at 11-under after a 67.

Defending champion Lorena Ochoa finished in a tie for sixth at 7-under.

© 2008 AFP