The News
Saturday 07 of December 2024

Helped by Trump's putting advice, Herman leads Barbasol


AP Photo,Jim Herman hits the ball from a bunker on the 18th hole during the second round of the Barbasol Championship golf tournament at Keene Trace Golf Club in Nicholasville, Ky., Friday, July 19, 2019. (Ryan C. Hermens/Lexington Herald-Leader via AP)
AP Photo,Jim Herman hits the ball from a bunker on the 18th hole during the second round of the Barbasol Championship golf tournament at Keene Trace Golf Club in Nicholasville, Ky., Friday, July 19, 2019. (Ryan C. Hermens/Lexington Herald-Leader via AP)

NICHOLASVILLE, Ky. (AP) — Helped by President Donald Trump’s putting advice, Jim Herman had two eagles in a 10-under 62 to maintain a one-stroke lead Saturday in the PGA Tour’s Barbasol Championship.

Trump’s regular golf partner while working as an assistant professional at Trump National Bedminster in New Jersey, Herman changed to a conventional putting grip and clubhead at the president’s suggestion.

Herman made an 11-foot eagle putt on the par-5 eighth and a 10-footer on the par-5 15th. He also had six birdies to get to 24-under 192 at rain-softened Keene Trace.

Encouraged by Trump to pursue a playing career, the 41-year-old Herman won the 2016 Houston Open for his lone tour title — a victory that followed a friendly round with Trump.

Kelly Kraft was second after a 61.