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BETHESDA, Maryland - KJ Choi and Stuart Appleby fired three-under-par 67s to charge three shots clear at the midway point of the Tiger Woods-hosted golf tournament at Congressional Country Club on Friday.
South Korean Choi and Australian Appleby, who were among five players tied for the first-round lead,
posted seven-under totals of 133 after 36 holes.
World number one Woods, who struggled with his putter in an opening round of 73, jumped into contention with a sparkling 66.
Hunting his 58th PGA Tour title and fourth of the season, new father Woods rattled up six birdies and suffered just two bogeys to finish at one-under 139.
"I feel like I at least gave myself a chance where if I play two good rounds, I have a chance of winning the tournament, instead of having to play one great round or even two great rounds to get myself into that same position," Woods told reporters.
American journeyman Craig Kanada shot a 67 and was in a three-tie for third at four under with compatriots Robert Garrigus and Billy Andrade.
Choi, who won his fifth Tour title at the Memorial tournament in Dublin, Ohio last month, said it was too early to entertain thoughts of another victory.
"I just think it's very important for me to stay focused, try my best, hole-by-hole, day-by-day and not to get too ahead of myself," he told reporters.
"I don't want to deviate from anything. I just want to keep my mind set where I am right now."
Appleby, chasing his ninth title on the world's biggest circuit, was understandably upbeat.
"My game feels good enough to win, for sure," he said.
"I know what the course is about and I understand the shots that have to be played here.
"It's just a matter of executing and going and having some fun."
World number two Phil Mickelson, who hurt his wrist in May while practising for the US Open, missed the cut after shooting a 73 for a seven-over, two-day total of 147.
The left-hander said he needed the work with the British Open just two weeks away.
"I knew I would be a little rusty heading into this week," said the world's second-ranked player.
"I knew I wasn't quite sharp. It was important that I get in some competitive rounds. I was hoping to get two more.
"I'll head over and play the Scottish Open and try to get in a good competitive frame of mind for the British."
First-round co-leader Vijay Singh shot a 71 and was level with American Steve Stricker and Swede Fredrik Jacobson in sixth place with a two-day total of 137.
- REUTERS