Charlotte, NC (4/22/07) - Walter Todd of Laurens, SC led wire-to-wire to claim the Carolinas Mid-Amateur Championship at Providence Country Club.

Todd shot a final-round even-par 72 to hold off a back-nine charge by reigning South Carolina Mid-Amateur Champion Steve Liebler of Irmo, SC. Todd's steady nines of even par on both sides provided a one-shot lead over Liebler.

The 46 year-old Todd began the final round with a four-stroke lead over 2003 champion Rick Cloninger of Fort Mill, SC. Cloninger's final round 71 was enough for a solo third place finish, three back of Todd.

Playing with Cloninger, Todd thought his lead was three strokes heading into the 18th hole.

"The only time I checked the scores was at the turn to see if anyone was making a charge," said Todd. "At that time I was six strokes in the lead.

Unbeknownst to Todd, Steve Liebler was making a back-nine charge with birdies on 12, 13, 14, 15 and 17. Liebler's back-nine four-under par 33 was not enough to secure the win.

"I had no idea what Steve (Liebler) was doing in front of me," said a relieved Todd. "Maybe it was best I did not know."