Sergio Garcia claims Dubai Classic lead

Sergio Garcia took a three-shot lead halfway through the Dubai Desert Classic after the second round was completed.

Garcia, the world No. 15, added a five-under-par 67 to the 65 he shot on Thursday to reach 12 under. Nacho Elvira shot a 68 to move into second place with a 9-under-par 135.

Henrik Stenson, the reigning British Open champion and European No. 1, moved into contention by shooting a 68 and finishing with three consecutive birdies. That left him tied with South Africa's George Coetzee, who made a double bogey on his final hole for a 70.

The weather conditions were perfect Saturday morning after severe wind gusts uprooted trees and moved balls on the greens, forcing the European Tour to suspend play.

Tiger Woods was part of the tournament but was forced to withdraw on Friday before starting his second round because of back spasms.