Tour rookie Fowler climbs into contention

Rickie Fowler is proving to be a quick learner.

The PGA Tour rookie made a big climb up the leaderboard Friday at TPC Summerlin, posting a 7-under-par 64 and putting himself into contention at the Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open.

Fowler, a former Oklahoma State All-American who recently turned pro and moved to Summerlin, is tied for seventh place going into today's third round at 11 under, just two shots out of the lead. He had six birdies and an eagle against just one bogey Friday, and it could have been an even better round had he found a way to birdie the par-5 No. 9 instead of settling for par when his 12-foot try just missed.

"It wasn't exactly how I wanted to finish out, but I'm definitely pleased with where I'm at," said Fowler, who has a two-day total of 131.

Fowler said the work he has been putting in daily on his game is paying off.

"It's not that easy out there, but if you are hitting it well, you're going to be able to play well," he said.

• PIERCY A PAPA -- Las Vegas' Scott Piercy became a father for the third time Thursday night when his wife, Sara, gave birth to a son at St. Rose Dominican Hospital. Jett Piercy joins older brothers Cole and Brennan.

Piercy remained in the tournament and shot a 4-under 67 Friday. He is tied for seventh with a two-round total of 131.

"We're very excited about the new baby," Piercy said. "I got very little sleep last night. With that in mind, I'm happy with my round and where I stand going into the weekend."

• NOTABLE CUTS -- There will be a new champion Sunday after last year's winner, Marc Turnesa, failed to make the cut Friday. The cut came at 4 under, and Turnesa, who despite playing below par at 141 for two days, did not do enough to stay in the tournament.

Along with Turnesa, several name players exited after Friday's second round. Anthony Kim (140), Rocco Mediate (143), Mark Calcavecchia (144) and Davis Love III (145) failed to advance. Locally, Nick Watney (141), Craig Barlow (143) and Wes Weston (148) missed the cut.

Those locals among the 73 who made the cut include Alex Cejka (134), Dean Wilson (137), Tommy Armour III (138) and Ernie Gonzalez (138). Gonzalez bounced back from a 73 Thursday with an 8-under 63.

• ROAD CLOSURE -- If you plan to attend today's third round and Sunday's final round at TPC Summerlin, be advised that the off-ramp to Summerlin Parkway at U.S. 95 will be closed for construction.

An alternate route is I-215 West to Summerlin Parkway East, exiting at Town Center Drive, then following the signs to the course.

For those parking at the Suncoast, follow the same directions to the Rampart Boulevard exit. Turn right at the exit, and drive about one-half mile to the Suncoast parking lot to take the free shuttle to the golf course.

Contact reporter Steve Carp at scarp@ reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2913.