Carl Yuan makes most of lucky break to grab share of lead at Sony Open in Hawaii

Yuan grabbed six birdies in a five-under-par 65 at Waialae Country Club as he chases his first PGA Tour title, having gained full membership on the tour this year only after Jon Rahm decided to join LIV Golf, which lifted Yuan into last place on the list of automatic FedEx Cup qualifiers.

The 26-year-old admitted it was a relief to have gained full membership ahead of the new season, which allowed him to avoid a trip to Q-school.

"Before I learn the news I was really trying to get myself ready and come out and play good in Hawaii and on the West Coast and try to earn myself back on tour," he said.

"Luckily I got full status, but I'm still trying to do the same thing and come out here and play the best I can."

Looking ahead to the weekend, Yuan said he hopes to stay on an even keel. 

"I feel like I just got to do what I did last two days: be patient and stay committed, know exactly what I'm going to do before I hit a shot and see how it turns out."

Co-leaders Eckroat and An had rounds of 66 and 64 respectively to join the three-way tie at nine under, the latter going bogey-free as he drained six birdies.

Eckroat had five birdies and one bogey as he celebrated his 25th birthday.

"Didn't get as many putts as I would like to fall, but easy to look back and say that, Really solid round. Shooting 66 isn't a bad birthday."

As many as sixteen players lie within two shots of the lead, including first-round leader Cam Davis, Ben Griffin, Stewart Cink, Kurt Kitayama, Keegan Bradley and Chris Kirk, winner of last weekend's Sentry tournament at Kapalua.

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