French golfer holds lead in China Open

Beijing -- Michael Lorenzo-Vera of France shot 3-under 69 Friday to hold a one-shot lead at the halfway mark of the China Open.

Lorenzo-Vera was at 8-under 136.

Richard Finch and Damien McGrane also shot 69s for a total of 137.

Oliver Wilson moved into fourth-place with a 6-under 66, two strokes back.

Defending champion Markus Brier was in a four-way tie for fifth place, at 4-under 140.

"I am very happy because I was quite strong on the course, but I did miss two short putts," Lorenzo-Vera said. "I made a lot of birdies today and I hope they keep coming."

Lorenzo-Vera has led after each of the first two rounds, the first time he has held overnight leads on the European Tour.

Copyright 2008 by United Press International.