AMERICAN Scott Dunlap carded a seven under par 65 to take a commanding lead after yesterday's second round of the Canadian Open golf tournament at Oakville.

His performance helped him set a course record two round score of 15 under 129, the best since the Open moved to Oakville in 1977 and take a three stroke lead over compatriot Dudley Hart. In 1989, Steve Jones shot 131 over two rounds and Jim Benepe matched that in 1991.

Dunlap is bidding for his first PGA Tour win and first pro victory since winning the 1995 Canadian Masters as a regular on the Canadian Tour.

"I've had some low rounds before, but they've never been followed up by something even remotely close," said Dunlap, who has been struggling this year.

"It's insane to think I can keep playing this way. This is by far the best back to back rounds I ever had."

Dudley Hart and Michael Bradley, both with an eight under par 64 on the 7,112 yard Glen Abbey Golf Club course, scored best round of the day.