Ellis beats rain to claim lead

Danny Ellis is the man to catch after completing two rounds of the rain-plagued HP Classic in New Orleans at 15 under 129.

After shooting a first-round nine-under-par 63, he then posted a 66 for a one-stroke advantage over Charles Howell III.

Ellis played the final nine holes of his first round on Saturday morning, then just finished his second round before rain at the already drenched English Turn Golf & Country Club forced another suspension.

Seventy-seven of the 152 players must return on Sunday morning for the completion of their second rounds.

The third round is then scheduled to get under way later in the day. Some players have as many as 29 holes to play on Sunday.

Tournament organisers hope to finish the 72-hole event on Monday.

Howell III added a 64 to his opening 66 to be two shots ahead of a group of five players sharing third that includes Phil Mickelson.

Mickelson, playing for the first time since claiming an emotional Major triumph at The Masters, was second to David Toms at this event three years ago.

Also at 12 under is Paul Azinger, who had played 11 holes in his second round,