“I had heard good things about the SAS Championship. I hit lots of quality iron shots this week,” said Pernice.
 
Pernice entered the final round with a one stroke lead on the competition and managed to hold off a horde of challengers with a final round 3-under 69. Playing in the final group, he approached the 18th hole in a three-way tie with Price and Frost, both already in the clubhouse. Huge galleries crammed the bleachers and lined the edge of the green as they awaited the conclusion to the tournament. They were not disappointed as Pernice gave a big fist pump to the crowd after his long birdie putt rolled around the edge of the cup and dropped home.

During a trophy ceremony on the 18th green, Pernice thanked all the sponsors, volunteers and especially the fans that were supportive all week. The final round was graced with sunny skies after several days of intermittent rain. Fans turned out in droves to enjoy the beautiful day and exciting competition.

“Proud of myself today. I really wasn’t aware of what the other guys were doing. Thought I had to get to 13-under. I knew where I stood on 18. You don’t expect to make 35-footers. I guess it was my time to win,” said Pernice.

Pernice becomes the 15th Champions Tour player to win in his debut and the third this year. He earned $315,000 for his efforts and 315 Charles Schwab Cup points.

Price was hopeful for his second career Champions Tour victory following a decorated playing career on the PGA TOUR in which he won 18 tournaments. He was four-under on the day including a strong stretch run with birdies on holes 14, 16 and 17.

Frost, competing in only his second Champions Tour event after turning 50 on September 11, turned a T2 performance one week after finishing T9 in his debut in Hickory. He was five-under on Sunday and made clutch putts down the stretch for birdie on 15, 16 and 17 but could not reach the magic number of 13-under.

The SAS Championship and Triangle area have become one of the most popular stops on the Champions Tour, annually drawing elite fields and tremendous community support. Visit www.saschampionship.com for more information.