Woodland grabs half-way lead at Tournament of Champions

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Gary Woodland carded his second straight six-under 67 to clinch a three-shot lead halfway through the 2019 Tournament of Champions while former world no. 1 Rory McIlroy made some remarkable putting in his debut at the Kapalua course in Lahaina, Hawaii.

Seeking his fourth win on the PGA Tour, Woodland was on song through and used a streak of five consecutive birdies, beginning at the no. 11, to reach 12-under 134 at the Plantation Course.

McIlroy, who is currently world No. 8, is tied with Bryson DeChambeau and first-round leader Kevin Tway for the second place at nine under.

Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland hits his second shot on the 10th hole during the second round of the Sentry Tournament of Champions at the Plantation Course at Kapalua Golf Club in Lahaina, Hawaii, U.S., January 4, 2018. /VCG Photo

After two excellent days of golfing, Woodland said, "I have a little different mindset this week, playing a little more aggressive, trying to contend, and trying to win instead of just enjoying the views out here, which I've done in the past."

After firing 68, McIlroy isn't the only former major winner, who is still in the hunt. American Justin Thomas is currently tied for sixth after registering a one-under 72.

Cameron Champ, a long-hitting rookie, and Xander Schauffele are keeping Thomas company at seven-under, five shots adrift of Woodland.

Tournament Debutant McIlroy informed, "I stayed patient. The front nine's the tough nine on this golf course, and I had a couple opportunities, but I just thought if I could get through that first nine under par, I would have a few chances on the back nine. And thankfully I was able to take advantage."

34-year-old Woodland was on a roll last summer finishing in the top 12 in six-out-of-seven worldwide starts and his last win came at the 2018 Phoenix Open.