Lewis leads John Deere Classic chase

JL Lewis carded a two-under-par 69 to take a three-shot lead after the third round of the John Deere Classic in Illinois.

Lewis, who won this event in 1999, is finally making the headlines after Michelle Wie’s failure to make the cut and finished on 15 under at 198.

He started with a bogey but it was his only mistake in a round that included three birdies.

Hank Kuehne, Richard Johnson and Craig Bowden share second place.

Kuehne shot a 67 while Johnson and Bowden each carded 68s – all three are looking for their first PGA Tour victory.

Jeff Brehaut signed for a five-under 65 and Robert Damron carded a 69 to end the day tied for fifth at 11 under.

A trip to the British Open at St Andrews is also on the line this week as the top finisher not already exempt for the season’s third Major will earn an invitation.