Robert Allenby carded seven birdies and just one bogey in a 65 to lead by two strokes after the second round of the Booz Allen Classic at the Congressional Country Club in Maryland.
The Australian, who had missed seven cuts in 16 events prior to this
tournament, is on nine under par at 133, two ahead of England's Lee Westwood.
Overnight leader Matt Gogel, defending champion Adam Scott and fellow Aussie
Steve Elkington join the Englishman on seven under.
Dubliner Padraig Harrington is well down the field at two over.
"I got away to a good start," Allenby said. "I just hit a lot of good iron
shots and then made the putts as well, which was nice.
"I was happy to finish with a couple of good par plays in the last two holes as well. A good way to finish."
Tiger Woods and David Toms are the only top-ten golfers not playing here, but so far the tournament has belonged to the lesser-known players.
Gogel shot a one-over 72 while Scott signed for a 67 that included six birdies, Elkington a 67 and Westwood a 69.
Ernie Els, who won the US Open here in 1997, shot a 67 and is tied for sixth at six under, alongside Shigeki Maruyama and Tommy Armour III.
England's Luke Donald and Veterans Tom Kite and Davis Love III head a group of 11 tied for 11th at five-under.
