Sports roundup: Local golfers Ernst, Patel close to earning PGA, web.com cards

Australia’s Steven Bowditch shot an 8-under 64 on PGA West’s Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course in La Quinta to take a one-stroke lead at 23-under 337 after the fifth of six rounds of the PGA Tour qualifying tournament Sunday in Southern California.

The final top 25 and ties will receive 2013 PGA Tour cards and the next 50 and ties will earn web.com Tour cards.

Former Clovis East High star Derek Ernst (66) was in a group tied for third at 21 under, and former Fresno State standout Bhavik Patel shot a 2-under 70 and is tied for 39th at 13 under.

Higton wins Fresno City Four-Ball Amateur

Ryan Higton birdied the first playoff hole to earn the victory in the championship flight with partner Jason Higton at the Fresno City Four-Ball Amateur Championship at Riverside Golf Course.

Fresno City routs Santa Barbara

Keyora Wharry and Madison Parrish both scored 16 points to lead Fresno City to a 74-48 victory over Santa Barbara in the third-place game of the Gilcrest Tournament in Visalia.