Austin Smotherman holds one-shot lead in Utah and goes after his first PGA Tour title

IVINS, Utah (AP) — In the Utah Championship, Austin Smotherman took an early lead with a string of birdies after facing challenges from opponents throughout the Saturday rounds. Smotherman closed out the day with a 6-under 65, putting him one stroke ahead of Doug Ghim heading into the final round. The tournament, now in its third year, offers a chance for the top players to secure full PGA Tour cards for 2027, with a two-year exemption also available to the winners.

Smotherman, making his 100th career start, and Ghim, with his 192nd, are both fighting for their first PGA Tour victory. Smotherman's strong finish included three birdies on the last four holes, while Ghim responded to his first bogey of the tournament with six birdies on the back nine, giving him a strong chance at his first PGA Tour title.