In-form Kuchar moves one stroke clear at La Quinta

(Reuters) - Fresh from a tie for third at last week's Sony Open in Hawaii, American Matt Kuchar maintained his red-hot form to grab a one-shot lead after Friday's second round of the $5.7 million Humana Challenge at La Quinta. The world number 11 took advantage of another gorgeous day in the California desert as he fired a sparkling eight-under-par 64 on the Nicklaus Private course at PGA West, one of three venues hosting the pro-am event. Kuchar, a seven-times winner on the PGA Tour known for his remarkably consistent play, mixed seven birdies with an eagle and a lone bogey to post a 15-under total of 129. Overnight leader Michael Putnam was a further stroke back after carding a 67 on the Palmer Private layout, ending a day of near-perfect scoring conditions level with fellow American Bill Haas, who shot a 63 at La Quinta Country Club.

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