Peter Hanson boosted his chances of claiming a share of the $7,500,000 Race to Dubai bonus pool with a third round 64 at the Portugal Masters.
On another day of low scoring in Vilamoura, the Swede’s eight under par round gave him the clubhouse lead on 16 under.
Currently 18th on The Race to Dubai – the top 15 split the bonus pool after the Dubai World Championship – Ryder Cup star Hanson has had seven top-ten finishes so far in 2011.
And he was well placed for another, and possibly a first win of the season, after carding nine birdies and a solitary bogey at Oceânico Victoria Golf Club.
Alongside Hanson on 16 under were compatriot Christian Nilsson and Spain’s Rafael Cabrera Bello, who had seven and four holes remaining respectively.
Overnight leader Simon Khan, first-round leader James Kingston and Chile’s Felipe Aguilar were all one shot off the pace shortly after making the turn.
“To shoot 64 today and get back into the tournament feels great,” said Hanson.
“I took advantage of those par fives on the front nine and managed to make some putts.
“I’m just outside the top 15 on The Race to Dubai and I’d love to sneak in – I’ve been just outside the last couple of years.”
Earlier in the day Hennie Otto’s best-of-the-week 63 had sent the South African roaring into contention on 14 under.
