Viktor Hovland took over the lead on a difficult day at the Farmers Insurance Open as the field dealt with Friday’s stormy weather – and a brief delay – on the Torrey Pines Golf Course.
Hovland shot a 7-under 65 in the second round, to take a one-stroke lead over a pack of six golfers who held a share of second place at 8-under.
Patrick Reed, Thursday’s co-leader, was among those tied for second, along with Tony Finau, Lanto Griffin, Ryan Palmer, Jon Rahm and Adam Scott.
The golfers faced rain, hail and wind throughout the day, conditions that worsened depending on where they played.
Rahm told the Associated Press the South Course was “absolutely brutal” Friday.
“Even being on the fairway, some shots are not easy, and with this wind and rain coming in and out, for those who played the North today, we should be really fortunate to play that course today,” he said.
The field was reduced to the top 70 players and ties following conclusion of the second round. After playing the first two rounds on both the North and South courses, the final two will be played on the South Course.
San Diegan Phil Mickelson moved forward, at 1-under, as did Torrey Pines High alum Pat Perez, at 3-under, and Kyle Mendoza, of Oceanside, and San Diego State alum Xander Schauffele, both at 2 under.
Alex Noren, who shared first place with Reed after Thursday’s round, fell to a three-way tie for 11th.
Among the top names missing the cut – two-time Farmers Open winner Jason Day and Jordan Spieth. Scott Scheffler, who finished third in the opening round, also failed to make the cut.
Locals who will not move on – SDSU alum J.J. Spaun, Torrey Pines High alum Jamie Lovemark and Poway High alum Charley Hoffman.
The tournament is set to conclude Sunday. The winner will receive $1.35 million.
– Staff and wire reports