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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted at 8:52 a.m., Saturday, October 11, 2008

Golf: South African Schwartzel leads Madrid Masters

Associated Press

MADRID, Spain — Charl Schwartzel shot a 5-under 66 today for a one-stroke lead over Ricardo Gonzalez after the third round of the Madrid Masters.

The South African, who nearly pulled out of the tournament because of back pain, leads at 14-under 199 overall. Gonzalez (62) is second, one stroke ahead of Pablo Larrazabal (62).

"I didn't feel very well this morning," Schwartzel said. "I felt a bit strange. I'm glad I didn't retire. My back hurt and I went to a physiotherapist and he gave me a patch. I slept with it on even though I didn't get much rest."

Larrazabal had an eagle, eight birdies and a bogey to share the day's lowest score with Gonzalez.

"I began playing quite well, but it was the eagle at the ninth hole that shot me up," the Spaniard said. "It's a shame I three-putted the fifth hole."

Two-time Masters champion Jose Maria Olazabal (71) made the cut in 54th place at 213.