Garrigus grabs second-round lead at Hyundai

KAPALUA, Maui >> Known better for his bombs off the tee than his wins on the PGA Tour, long hitter Robert Garrigus shot a blistering 10-under 63 today to take the second-round lead at the Hyundai Tournament of Champions played on the famed Plantation Course.

Best remembered for his heartbreaking loss to Lee Westwood at the St. Jude Classic in Memphis, Tenn., Garrigus holds a one-shot lead over Carl Pettersson (67—133) and a two-stroke advantage over Jonathan Byrd (68—134) entering tomorrow’s third round of this winners-only event.

"It feels great leading leading a tournament after two days," Garrigus said. "It really doesn’t mean much, but it would be nice if I could finish it off this weekend."

Garrigus carded eight birdies and one hole-out for eagle at the par-4 16th to hold off several challenges from better-known golfers with a two-day total of 14-under 132. Ernie Els fired a 64 to move into a tie for fourth at 10-under 136 with fellow past TOC winner Jim Furyk (68), Steve Stricker (67) and Francesco Molinari (67) in the opening event on the professional circuit.

The benign conditions produced low numbers from several golfers, including Dustin Johnson and Jason Day, who both carded 7-under 66s. There were 16 rounds in the 60s with only four players landing in red numbers among the 32 golfers who teed it up today.

Earlier in the day, Camilo Villegas was disqualified for signing an incorrect scorecard. He is the second player among the 34 golfers set to play this week, who was removed from the scene. Two-time defending champion Geoff Ogilvy missed out on the fun after suffering an injury to his right index finger. He not only withdrew from this tournament, but next week’s Sony Open in Hawaii as well.

Among the top seven finishers through 36 holes, the only player who won’t be on Oahu next week is Molinari.