Michael Clark became the PGA Tour's sixth first-time winner this season when he rolled in a 12-foot birdie putt on the fourth playoff hole Monday to defeat veteran Kirk Triplett in the rain-delayed John Deere Classic at Silvis, Ill.
Clark earned a two-year exemption and $468,000. His previous best finish was a tie for 13th at the Compaq Classic in New Orleans.
In a final round suspended Sunday because of heavy rain, Clark shot a four-under 67, but Triplett birdied the final hole of regulation to tie in a tournament-record 19-under 265. Triplett had a final-round 70.
Charles Howell, who turned pro after winning the NCAA championship at Oklahoma State, had a 66 and finished one stroke out of the playoff. He earned $176,800, boosting his yearly earnings high enough to earn a special tour exemption.
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With his book still spurring controversy, Mark James' role as a vice captain in the next Ryder Cup will be discussed today by Europe's cup committee.
James has been criticized for his book, "Into the Bear Pit," which chronicles his year as captain and includes criticism of Nick Faldo, Tony Jacklin and the American team's behavior during its comeback to win the cup last September.
Neil Coles, who will preside over the meeting Tuesday, said he did not think James would lose his position.
Olympics
Athletes could be tested for EPO during the Sydney Olympics even if the International Olympic Committee fails to approve a test for the banned drug this week.
EPO, or erythropoietin, boosts the production of oxygen-rich red blood cells. It is believed to be heavily used in endurance events such as cycling and distance running, where experts say it can improve performance by as much as 15%.
Even if a test is approved just before, during or near the end of the Sept. 15-Oct. 1 Sydney Games, the IOC would be entitled to use it, Patrick Schamasch, the IOC's medical director, said.
Schamasch spoke in Lausanne, Switzerland, at the start of a two-day meeting of a 15-member panel composed of the IOC medical commission and outside experts.
The nine finalists for the U.S. Equestrian team were announced, the same day 12 horses left their quarantine in Louisville, Ky. on a long flight to Sydney.
Extra horses were needed because of the potential for injury while they train during the long quarantine in Australia.
