Alker Takes One-Stroke Lead at Boeing Classic Amid Family Grief

Steven Alker took the lead at the Boeing Classic in Snoqualmie, Wash, after firing a 4-under-par 68 on Saturday.

The 55-year-old made an early move with two birdies over his first three holes and finished strong with four birdies over his final eight to wrap up his second straight round at 68 or better (67 on Friday).

Alker is now at 9-under 135 for the tournament, looking for his second win this season and first since the Cologuard Classic in March.

The golfers are dealing with personal issues off the course. Alker's wife lost her mother recently, affecting their family.

'(My wife) has been supporting me for 20 years and it's time to support her,' Alker said. 'Everybody's got stuff going on off the golf course, there's always, but when you're dealing with death, it's a little bit different just to be in the right place mentally.'

American Vaughn Taylor matched Alker's 68 with his five birdies and solitary bogey, landing him in second place at 8 under.