Second-round ace moves Kim four clear in Texas

South Korea’s Si Woo Kim wants more of the same over the weekend after opening up a four-shot halfway lead at the Valero Texas Open thanks to a hole-in-one (Kim 15/8 – Outright Betting).

The 23-year-old sits on -12 after a round of four birdies and an ace at the par-three 16th helped put daylight between himself and the chasing pack.

The Asian star is looking for third PGA Tour title after winning the 2016 Wyndham Championship and the Players Championship a year later and hopes his form continues over the next 48 hours.

“The first days here I’ve been feeling good,” he said. “I don’t want to change anything.”

There are some big names waiting to pounce should the talented youngster falter, with six players reaching -8 after the second round.

Three-time major winner Jordan Spieth (11/2) and world number ten Rickie Fowler (9/2) are among those closest to Kim, with the latter content with his position after 36 holes.

“I hit some good shots out there and made a few putts,” said Fowler. “I’m happy with it. Obviously in a good spot going into the weekend.”

Seven players are a further shot back, with US duo Brian Stuard (50/1) and Scott Stallings (40/1) plus Australian Matt Jones (40/1) on -7, while Northern Ireland’s Graeme McDowell (40/1) continues to shine and joined Jhonattan Vegas in a group of five on six-under.

Veterans Ernie Els (200/1) and Matt Kuchar (50/1) will have work to do to catch the leader after reaching -4 on Friday evening, and they will certainly need Kim to fluff his lines during the next two rounds to stand any chance of claiming the spoils.

Odds subject to change.