Richardson takes 54 hole lead at the SANLAM SA Amateur

After the start to the third round was delayed by 2 and a quarter hours due to heavy mist, the third round got under way at 09h15. Overnight leader, Federico Colombo (Italy) got off to a bad start as his opening tee shot sailed out of bounds left of the first hole, resulting in a double bogey. Federico battled the errant shot all day and finaly signed for a four over par 76, moving him to a three round total of 211 (-5) and in a tie for sixth place,7 shots off the new leader. Edward Richardson (England), who had trailed Frederico by one shot after two rounds was rewarded for his consistancy as his third consecutive round of 68 put him on a 54 hole total of 204 (-12), three shots ahead of his closest rival. Branden Grace (South Africa) who shot a 67 (tying the best round of the day) moved to 207 (-9) as he took second spot on his own and became the leading South African.

Johan du Buisson, two shots further back, is the second placed South African and he is trailed by Michael van de Venter a further two shots back. With 17 players under par through three rounds, the 54 hole cut was made at 224 (+8) with 79 players making it into the final round. The 72 hole cut will be made with the top 64 players progressing into the match play stages. The top 32 competing for the SA Amateur Trophy and the next 32 playing for the Godbold Trophy.

With 27 of the top 36 places being filled by internationals, the remaining South Africans will be forced to take out all the stops to keep the titels at home.

The final round gets under way at 11h00 on Wednesday at the De Zalze Golf Course.