Michael Putnam grabs lead in Mexico

Mexico City: Michael Putnam, who is seeking his first US PGA Tour win, shot a seven-under 64 Friday for a one-stroke lead after two rounds of the Mayakoba Classic in Mexico.

The contenders started to distance themselves from the field after a logjam atop the leaderboard in the opening round at the El Camaleon Golf Course.

American Putnam finished 36 holes at 12-under-par 130. Putnam has won three times on the developmental Web.com Tour in his career, but has come up empty on the PGA Tour.

"We teed off at 6:15 this morning so it was pretty calm then actually the wind was opposite of what it usually is because it was so early," Putnam said. "Coming in I made a few birdies and got it to seven-under today and shot a 64."

Shawn Stefani and Jason Bohn shot matching 65s and they are right behind Putnam in second place at 131. Ken Duke posted the low round of the day with a 63 which vaulted him into fourth place at 132.

First-round co-leader Will MacKenzie fired a 68 and is tied for fifth with Alex Cejka (67), Canada`s David Hearn (65) and Nicholas Thompson (65).

MacKenzie, who finished the first round tied with five others, is the only first-round leader within three shots of Putnam.

Defending champion Harris English shot a 71 and is eight shots back at 138.