Four lead at rain-suspended Zurich Classic

NEW ORLEANS, March 29 (UPI) -- Woody Austin birdied three straight holes and was among four co-leaders when the third round of the Zurich Classic was suspended by rain Saturday.

Austin was 8-under par through 11 holes, with Nicholas Thompson at the same number through 10 holes, Peter Lonard through four holes and Briny Baird through three.

The round was suspended for the day just before 5:30 p.m. CST after a weather delay of nearly 2 1/2 hours. Players were driven back to their holes in the middle of the delay for a scheduled re-start, but the rain continued and they were taken back to the clubhouse.

It is the second week in a row that a PGA Tour event has faced weather problems. Geoff Ogilvy won a Monday finish at the rain-delayed CA Championship.

Just 35 of the 81 players had completed their rounds before play was stopped.

John Senden held the clubhouse lead at 7-under with 66- 209 when play was suspended.