Shane Lowry set a new course record with a 62 on Friday to take a three-shot lead at the halfway point of the Irish Open, held at the Doonbeg resort in County Clare, Ireland. The 2019 British Open champion made nine birdies during his second-round performance, finishing 11 under par despite a solitary bogey on the 13th hole. Lowry’s strong showing delighted the home crowd, who provided robust vocal support throughout the day.

“I got off to a nice start and then I just kept going. I felt great out there,” Lowry said after his round. “The crowds were amazing out there today. They support me along the way and it was nice to give them something to shout about.” His ability to maintain momentum was evident as he responded to the lone setback with a birdie on the 15th hole.

Trailing Lowry by three shots are China’s Li Haotong and Danish duo Jacob Skov Olesen and Niklas Norgaard. The trio stands well positioned as the tournament moves into the weekend stages.

Defending champion Rory McIlroy experienced a less consistent day, carding a second consecutive 69. Despite an eagle on the eighth hole, McIlroy struggled to sustain his rhythm and notably three-putted on the final hole from close range. The six-time Major winner now trails Lowry by nine shots.

Joaquin Niemann, who led after the first round, recorded a par 70 on Friday and is five under par for the event. Niemann shares that position with four other competitors as the field looks ahead to the final two rounds of the tournament.