Jonathan Thomson ahead at Spanish International Amateur

CADIZ, Spain — Halfway through stroke play qualifying for the Spanish International Men's Amateur, Jonathan Thomson of England is a shot ahead the field, including four players at two-under 70, with his opening-round 69 at Jerez Golf Club. Contestants will play the final 18 of qualifying on Thursday before the top-32 players compete in a match play tournament. Tied in second place at 70 are Jim Liu of the United States, Gary Hurley of Ireland, Ivan Cantero of Spain, and Michael Hirmer of Germany. Seventeen players are within three shots of the lead, including recent South African Stroke Play winner Ugo Coussaud of France