Steve Stricker claims Rapiscan Systems Classic title

SAUCIER, MS (WLOX) - The Rapiscan Systems Classic wasn't a nail biter. One golfer began the day on top and he would not relinquish that lead.  He's now $240,00 richer.

Steve Stricker entered the final day with a one stroke lead and never relinquished his advantage, clinching the 2018 Rapiscan Systems Classic Championship at -11. He's now $240,000 richer.

The Madison, Wisconsin golfer was focused, meticulous and proceeded to pull away from the field on the back nine. He handled the pressure and captured the title with a 4-under 68 on Sunday, finishing 11-under 205 for the classic, three shots ahead of Billy Andrade.

"It was good to come down the stretch and hit the shots that I needed to hit down the stretch, and finish it off the way that I should," Stricker said.

Stricker has won in consecutive starts on both the PGA Tour and PGA Tour Champions.  On the PGA Tour Champions he has two victories and seven top-three finishes.

"Today was hard," Stricker said. "But deep down I knew I could do it. (I) just did it a couple of weeks ago, so that helped me to finish it today."

Billy Andrade picked up $140,000 for his second place finish. He played well, but just couldn't overcome the poised performance of Stricker.

Gene Sauers made a run with a 6-under 66 on Sunday to close out at 7-under.  He earned $88,000 tied for third place with Scott Parel, Jesper Pernevik and David McKenzie.

After winning the Rapiscan Systems Classic Championship, he claims the Anthony Topazi Trophy and moves to No. 1 in the Charles Schwab Cup with $593,560.

Two-time defending champion Miguel Angel Jimenez was tied for 33rd at even par for the tournament.

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