Akshay Bhatia stretches lead to 5 shots at windy Texas Open

Akshay Bhatia survived a rocky start Friday in the Valero Texas Open by rallying with a pair of late birdies for a 2-under 70 that stretched his lead to five shots and raised hopes of getting the final spot in the Masters next week. Bhatia started with a three-shot lead and opened with a 15-foot birdie putt, perhaps a sign that this might be another easy day. Bhatia was at 11-under 133.

Akshay Bhatia stretches lead to 5 shots at windy Texas Open

Akshay Bhatia stretches lead to 5 shots at windy Texas Open

Akshay Bhatia stretches lead to 5 shots at windy Texas Open

Akshay Bhatia stretches lead to 5 shots at windy Texas Open

Akshay Bhatia stretches lead to 5 shots at windy Texas Open