Bernhard Langer leads by two shots at Greater Hickory Classic after 36 holes

CONOVER, N.C. – Bernhard Langer overcame a shaky start and soggy course conditions to take a two-stroke lead after the second round of the Champions Tour's Greater Hickory Classic on Saturday. 

Second behind Kenny Perry in the Charles Schwab Cup standings, Langer bogeyed the first two holes on the reconfigured Rock Barn layout, then made six birdies for a 4-under 66 and a 10-under 130 total. 

"I got off to a really rough start," Langer said. "But I settled down and got a nice run of birdies there, and played pretty decent golf for the most part." 

Langer has 18 victories on the 50-and-over tour, two early this season. 

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"I've had lots of opportunities since July, but haven't quite closed the deal," said Langer, who has finished in the top 10 in his last seven tournaments – including a playoff loss to Mark Wiebe in the Senior British Open. "I think I'm just taking it too serious, too intense. So I'm trying to enjoy the moment. 

"I'm only going to have a few years left playing professional golf. I'm out there with some great guys on some beautiful golf courses, so let's have some fun. That's my goal this week." 

Michael Allen, Brad Bryant and John Riegger were tied for second. Allen shot 65, Bryant had a 66, and Riegger a 67. Bruce Vaughan, who won the qualifying tournament to make the field, shot a 62 to join Olin Browne at 7 under. Browne had a 68. Perry was tied for 17th at 3 under after a 69.