Casper leads classic

Press, Volume CXVI, Issue 34072, 9 February 1976, Page 16

Casper leads classic

CV.Z. Press Assn—Copyright)

PALM SPRINGS (California). Billy Casper birdied the final hole for a 68 that broke a tie with Jack Nicklaus to give the portly veteran the fourth-round lead today in the SUSIBO,OOO Bob Hope desert golf classic. But, Casper, the 44-year-old winner of 51 tour titles, was making no victory predictions in the 90-hole, fiveday event. “It used to be that I could get it in a groove and keep it there.” Casper said. “But now everything changes every day. All 1 can do is try to keep everything together and make some putts.” Casper had a 72-hole total of 279, nine under par after one round on each of the four desert courses used in the unique event.

He held a one-stroke lead over the threatening, formidable Nicklaus and Rik Massengale, tied at 280. Nicklaus shot a 69 in the company of the clowning Flip Wilson and host Bob Hope at Indian Wells, the site of tomorrow’s fifth and final round. Massengale had a 68 at Bermuda Dunes.

Buddy Allin dropped out of the lead for the first time in the tournament after a 71 at La Quinta. He was two shots back at 281, seven under par. He was tied with Johnny Miller, who had a 68 despite a pair of three-putt greens.

Dave Newquist shot a 71 at Bermuda Dunes and was next at 282, followed by Dwight Nevil and Lee Elder at 283. Nevil shot a 72, Elder 69.