SENIORS ARE HOGG HUNTING

0 Comments | Gazette, The (Colorado Springs), Jun 8, 2008 | by KATY BOOTH

Before teeing off on the second day of the Ferguson Pontiac Buick GMC Springer Championship, defending champion Bruce Hogg knew that he wouldn't be able to match his first-round score of 6-under-par 66.

"I had seven birdies and an eagle yesterday, and things like that just don't happen two days in a row," he said. "Today I had three bogeys and a double, and only two birdies. There was bound to be a little bit of a letdown, but hopefully that's behind me now."

Hogg finished with a 3-over 75 Saturday at Valley Hi Golf Course. Despite adding strokes to his score, Hogg remains in the lead of the Senior Championship flight at 141. Larry Lewnard is Hogg's closest competitor at 143 after shooting a 69.

Hogg had a five-stroke lead after one round.

"Everybody is out here trying to shoot their best and win, and I'm no different," Hogg said.

"But the best thing is, there's camaraderie out there. Most of us have played with each other, and that makes it more competitive but still comfortable."

Hogg, who has been a Colorado Springs resident since 1965, plays most often at the Colorado Springs Country Club, and plays at Valley Hi mainly during tournaments.

"The course is perfect out there," Hogg said. "The greens are challenging and unpredictable, and they've really held up well even with all this traffic."

For today's final round, Hogg will rely on his driver and putter as he looks to maintain his lead.

"Today was a little hiccup, and I'm really looking forward to going out and just ripping it," he said. "It's just been a really fun tournament."

In the championship flight, David Cosel leads with a 138. Justin Spray and Jason Rudquist are two strokes behind, while Garrett Smith's 141 is fourth. Michael Harrington is fifth with 145.

"It's anybody's tournament right now," Valley Hi head professional Mike Northern said.