Woods has Palmer and Dubai in mind at Torrey

By Mark Lamport-Stokes

SAN DIEGO, California (Reuters) - One way or another, Tiger Woods plans to draw level with Arnold Palmer in the record books before he tees off in next week's Dubai Desert Classic in the United Arab Emirates.

The American world number one stretched his lead to eight shots after Saturday's third round of the Buick Invitational and his 62nd PGA Tour title appears to be all but a formality.

The only doubt is when Woods will be able to seal his fourth successive victory at Torrey Pines, and sixth overall, with heavy rain and strong winds forecast for Sunday's final round.

"We're going to probably have to get it in on Monday and, if so, so be it," Woods told reporters after spread-eagling the field with a six-under-par 66 on Saturday.

"I'll still go over there (to Dubai) and play. I think I'll still be in time to play the pro-am, which will be my practice round, then tee it up on Thursday. It's a short flight. It's only 20 (hours)," he jested.

Woods is poised to join Palmer in fourth place in the all-time standings for PGA Tour career victories. Only Sam Snead (82), Jack Nicklaus (73) and Ben Hogan (64) have won more.

However, Woods is already looking forward to posting victory number 63.

PALMER TALK