Stolz became first-time winner on PGA Tour

LAS VEGAS, Oct. 10 (UPI) -- Australian Andre Stolz became the ninth first-time winner on the PGA Tour this year Sunday, recording a one-shot triumph at the Michelin Championship.

Stolz, who had never finished in the top 30 on the tour, shot a 5-under 67 to post a 72-hole total of 266.

Harrison Frazar, Tag Ridings and Tom Lehman shared second place at 267. Ridings shot the lowest Sunday round on the tour this year, a 61.

Stolz earned his way onto the tour by finishing among the top 15 on last year's Nationwide Tour money list, but he was in danger of losing his playing rights on the circuit. Prior to Sunday, he ranked only 217th in earnings with $88,373.

Not only did he win $720,000 Sunday, but he earned exempt status on the tour through the 2006 season.

Carl Pettersson and Dicky Pride shared fifth place at 268 while two-time U.S. Open champ Lee Janzen was among those at 269.

Stolz came to the par-4 18th needing only a par for the win. He left himself 45 feet from the hole in two, lagged to within three feet and made it for the title.