KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Justin Thomas had an eagle and nine birdies in shooting a course-record 61 at the CIMB Classic on Friday, taking the lead into the weekend at the PGA Tour’s event in Malaysia.
Thomas moved to 15-under 129 at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club for a one-stroke lead on American compatriot Brendan Steele, who shot a 63 and matched Thomas by having an eagle at the par-5 3rd hole.
First-round leader Scott Piercy overcame two early bogeys to shoot a 69 and take a share of third place, two shots off the leader, along with Spencer Levin, who had a round of 64, and Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama, who shot 66.
Former No.1 Adam Scott was at 10 under, and two-time defending champion Ryan Moore at 8 under.
Canada’s David Hearn shot a 65 Friday to climb into a tie for 12th at 9-under.