MUIRFIELD (Scotland) — Gee Chun is making a strong run at a major.
After a 5-under-66 second round on Friday, the South Korean golfer took the halfway lead in the Womens Open. She is now in contention to challenge for a second major title this year and fourth overall.
Chun shot a total of 8-under 134, which was 1 shot better than Ashleigh Buhai of South Africa and Madelene Sagstrom of Sweden, who both shot 65.
Seven-time major winner Inbee, also from South Korea, was a shot further back, after a 67.
Despite consecutive rounds of 75 on consecutive weekends, Chun won the Womens PGA Championship at Congressional in July. She carded six birdies in her round at Muirfield.
Chun stated that Sundays winner will be paid more than $1million, but she was also motivated to win a smaller cash prize.
Before the tournament started, my caddie Dean and I talked about it, and then we did a little betting, Chun stated. He said that if I dont make a bogey, he would buy me dinner and pay 100 dollars per day. Its like setting a new goal before each round. This mindset was very helpful on the course. I had two bogeys in the last two days but I am determined to have a round without bogeys.
Three of Chuns four LPGA Tour triumphs have been at majors including the 2016 Evian Championship as well as the 2015 U.S. Womens Open.
On Friday, she even received help from one of those gusts of wind that make Scottish Links golf so difficult.
Chun stated, I have a great reason now to love the Scottish wind. My ball was at the edge of the hole today. It dropped within three seconds. I can now enjoy more of the Scottish wind.
Buhai appeared on track to take the halfway lead after she made an eagle, four birdies and raced to the turn in 30. But after picking up another shot on 11th, she couldnt make further gains and lost her last shot of the day.
Hinako Shibuno, overnight leader, followed her 65 with a 73 to fall four shots off the pace.
Jessica Korda, second after the first round, settled on a 74. She was tied for 17th.
Laura Davies, a four time major winner, made her 42nd appearance in the event at the 58-year-old age. After an 81 that included a 10, she missed the cut.