Luke Donald in front at Nedbank Golf Challenge

SUN CITY, South Africa, Dec. 5 (UPI) -- Luke Donald was ahead by two strokes Thursday at the European Tour's Nedbank Golf Challenge in South Africa when play was stopped because of lightning.

Organizers twice halted play due to weather conditions. Lightning led to a 3-hour delay just after noon and suspended play for the day about 4:15 p.m. when threatening weather returned.

The first round is to resume Friday morning followed by the second round for the 30-player field.

Donald was 3-under in the first two holes, finishing off an eagle at the 589-yard, par-5 second hole. He added birdies at Nos. 8 and 9 but was called off the course after 11 holes.

Jamie Donaldson, who completed 12 holes, and Thomas Bjorn, through six, were tied for second at 3-under. Martin Kaymer, who also eagled No. 2, was in fourth at 2-under after six holes.

Eight players, including Henrik Stenson, Charl Schwartzel and Sergio Garcia, are at 5-under.