Bernhard Langer posted an eight-under par 64 to lead on the second day of the German Masters in Cologne.
The 44-year-old German continues to defy his years to lead by example on 13-under-par and is in prime position to achieve an unprecedented fourth German Masters title.
Darren Clarke still leads the Irish challenge and is just four shots off the pace after today’s 67.
Starting on the back nine, Clarke posted three birdies from the 11th but had a brief setback with a bogey at the 14th. He collected three more birdies on his inward half, two of which came on the final three holes.
Dubliner Paul McGinley also carded a 67 for a seven-under par 137 halfway total. His round included five birdies.
Pádraig Harrington got the ideal start he needs if he is to move into contention. He birdied three of his opening five holes and was five-under after seven holes.
Unlike Harrington, Des Smyth teed-off from the 10th and remained on one-under after three opening pars.