Reavie leads John Deer Classic

SILVIS, Ill., July 8 (UPI) -- Chez Reavie, a one-time winner on the PGA Tour, shot a 9-under 62 Friday that put him two shots in front at the midway point of the John Deere Classic.

Two-time defending champion Steve Stricker and multiple 2011 tour winner Mark Wilson jumped into contention and rookie Matt McQuillan survived the cut for just the second time in his career.

Reavie paced another day of low scoring at the TPC-Deere Run course and put himself into position to earn a berth in next week's British Open. The leading player among the first five of this event who is not already qualified for the British Open will receive an invitation to compete in the world's oldest golf tournament.

Reavie, whose only victory on the tour came at the 2008 Canadian Open, completed 36 holes at 14-under 128. That was two shots off the tournament record for two rounds.

Stricker shot a 64 to share second place with Steve Marino at 130. Those tied for fourth at 132 included Wilson, Jhonattan Vegas, Brendon de Jonge and Kyle Stanley. Wilson is one of three players with two wins on the circuit this year, joining Bubba Watson and Nick Watney.

Kris Blanks, who led after the first round, settled for an even-par 71 that put him in a tie for 17th place at 134. McQuillan was at 133 after shooting a 69. He made the cut in his first tournament this season and had not done so again until Friday.