Australia, Nov 23: US PGA champion Rich Beem fired a 64 for a share of the early clubhouse lead in the second round of the 54-hole Australian Open. Beem was tied on 10 under with Australia's Steve Allan, who started the day one shot adrift of overnight leader Charles Howell III.
Australia's Adam Scott, who also had a 64, was third on seven-under-par 133.
Beem compiled seven birdies and one bogey at the Victoria Golf Club, while Melbourne-born Allan's 64 included four birdies and an eagle at the par-five 18th hole. "I'm starting to get the hang of the greens," said Beem.
"I've given myself enough chances and I've taken advantage of them, which is nice.
"I'm playing well, so it seems. The golf course is a fun golf course, it lends to a lot of imagination.
"You don't just get up there and bomb away on every hole. If you are hitting it well, you can score well."
Meanwhile, Howell was in fourth place on six-under overall after four holes.
The first round was abandoned on Thursday because the rock-hard greens were deemed unplayable. Bureau Report