Cink overhauls Snedeker at blustery Tampa Bay

MIAMI (Reuters) - American Stewart Cink reeled off three consecutive birdies from the par-four 10th to take control in the weather-delayed third round of the Tampa Bay Championship at Palm Harbour on Saturday.

Playing superbly in gusting winds, Cink carded a two-under-par 69 for a five-under total of 208 on the daunting Copperhead Course at the Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club.

The four-times PGA Tour winner overhauled the pacesetting Brandt Snedeker and, despite bogeying the 18th, led by two shots when play was suspended for the day in fading light with six golfers still out on the course.

Australia's Geoff Ogilvy, the 2006 U.S. Open champion, matched Cink's 69 to lie second at three under, level with Americans Snedeker and Billy Mayfair, who both had three holes remaining.

Americans Tom Pernice junior and Sean O'Hair returned 71s to end a cold, blustery day at two under.

"It was a good day overall, very solid tee to green, and that's kind of what this course demands," Cink told reporters.

"I'm a little disappointed with the finish but 18 is a hard hole. It was practically dark when I was trying to make my putt and I didn't come close to reading it right."

Cink, whose last PGA Tour victory came at the 2004 WGC-NEC Invitational, is eager to return to the winner's circle.

"I haven't really learned how to just take the bull by the horns when I'm in that position every time," the 30-year-old said. "I have had my chances and I let a few go. I'm waiting for a big flood of wins to come."