PLAYA DEL CARMEN, Mexico, Feb. 22 (UPI) -- John Merrick fired a 2-under 68 Friday to stay in the lead by one shot at the halfway point of the Mayakoba Classic.
Merrick finished 36 holes at 8-under 132, with Brian Gay alone in second at 133. David Lutterus was by himself in third at 134, with Steve Marino fourth at 136.
There were 22 players within seven shots of Merrick, including former major championship winners Nick Price, John Daly and Larry Mize.
Greg Norman, who designed the host El Camaleon course, missed the cut by five shots. Defending champion Fred Funk barely made the cut at 144.
This is the second year for this event, which provides a competitive opportunity for those PGA Tour players who were not eligible for this week's World Golf Championship Accenture Match Play Championship.
