Even during a rough start, Webb Simpson never lost his cool. He was rewarded with one of the hottest stretches of his young career.

It put the local favor ite in position for his first PGA Tour win.

Simpson shot a 6-under 64 yesterday to move to 15-under 195 and take a two- stroke lead after three rounds at the Wyndham Championship in Greensboro, N.C.

The 26-year-old Raleigh native and former Wake Forest player had four birdies and an eagle during his late charge at the final event before the FedExCup playoffs start next week.

“I told myself to be patient and let the birdies come,” Simpson said. “It took them a while to get there, but finally made a few coming in.”

Tommy Gainey (69), who led or shared the lead after each of the first two rounds, was 13 under.

Carl Pettersson (63) and John Mallinger (65) were 12 under. Daniel Summerhays (68) was 11 under, and Billy Horschel (66), Charles Howell III (66), Jason Bohn (67), Retief Goosen (68) and Ernie Els (69) were another stroke back.

Play was halted for 1 hour, 4 minutes late in the day due to threats of rain and lightning. After things resumed, Simpson made his move.

CHOI UP 3 AT SAFEWAY

In North Plains, Ore., South Korean star Na Yeon Choi took a three-stroke lead in the Safeway Classic, shooting a 2-under 69 to reach 8 under.

Stacy Lewis was second at 5 under after a 68 that included four consecutive birdies to start the round, and Mika Miyazato (67) was third at 3 under.

CZECH PLUS FOR O’HARA

In Celadna, Czech Republic, Steven O’Hara of Scotland shot a flawless 7-under 65 yesterday to share the lead with Oliver Fisher of England (68) at 10-under 206 after the third round of the European Tour’s Czech Open.