Laird Wins Playoff at Shriners

Martin Laird reacts after draining the winning putt in Las Vegas.

LAS VEGAS — Martin Laird had a chance to win in regulation, but made

bogey on the 18th hole on Sunday to become the third-wheel in a sudden

death playoff. Redemption came with making a 20-foot birdie putt on the

second extra hole Sunday to win the Shriners Hospitals for Children Open.

It was seven years without a victory for Laird, and in a season of the most

bizarre kind, the 37 year old journeyman from Scotland now finds himself

with new life and a kickstart to his career (after receiving a sponsor exemption

just to get in the field in Las Vegas). After a miraculous par save on the 17th,

he squandered the lead with a poor approach and chip on the 72nd hole. His

3 under par 68 put him at 23 under par tied with Matthew Wolff and

Austin Cook.

All three players made par on the first hole of the playoff, before Laird

drained the winner on 17. At 358th in the world entering the Shriners,

Laird now has a two-year exemption and a full schedule of Majors on

his itinerary.

54 hole leader Patrick Cantlay faltered early and never found his form,

closing with a final round 73.