Korea’s Sung Hyun Park and Thailand’s Ariya Jutanugarn, the world Nos. 1 and 2, respectively, were among a foursome sharing the lead after 36 holes of the KEB Hana Bank Championship.
Park, the home favorite, carded a second consecutive 68 while Ariya was one better with a 67 for two-day totals of 8-under 136 at the Sky 72 Ocean Course.
England’s Charley Hull and American Danielle Kang posted matching 69s to join the top-ranked stars atop the leaderboard.
Park is excited to be paired with her main rival over the weekend.
“The very first time I was grouped together with Ariya, that was when I actually felt kind of pressure or burden,” Park said. “But since I’ve played with her quite often, I’m getting more and more comfortable with her.”
Overnight leader Nasa Hataoka of Japan struggled to a 73, but was just two off the lead, alongside Lydia Ko, who shot a bogey-free 68.
TOP 5: ROUND TWO
Pos-Player-To Par-(Today)
1. Ariya Jutanugarn -8 (-5)
1. Sung Hyun Park -8 (-4)
1. Charley Hull -8 (-3)
1. Danielle Kang -8 (-3)
5. Lydia Ko -6 (-4)
5. Nasa Hataoka -6 (+1)
Credit: Associated Press
