SASKATOON – Jaco Ahlers fired a 9-under 63 to take a two-stroke lead after two rounds at the PGA TOUR Canada’s Dakota Dunes Open on Friday.
The South Africa native moved to 16-under par ahead of countryman Doug McGuigan (64) and Nick Taylor (63) of Abbotsford, B.C., who finished the day tied for second.
“I just hit the ball great,” said Ahlers, who made eight birdies, a bogey and an eagle. “I’ve been hitting the ball great for a long time and just this week it all came together. I’ve made a few putts and hit a few great shots, but mainly I’ve been hitting the ball well.”
Ahlers, who is rooming with McGuigan, said their strong play is no coincidence.
“It’s funny enough, I said to Doug earlier in the week, the greens are designed very South African, and it’s all the same grass,” said Ahlers. “You can see the line better because you’re used to this type of grass.”
Taylor, a former world No. 1 amateur who finished fourth at last month’s Times Colonist Island Savings Open, said he’s making strides in his play this season.
“I felt like I’ve improved every year,” said Taylor. “Maybe mentally this year I’m a bit better, and I’ve progressed a bit there too. I think everything’s been a little bit better this year.”
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