Shanshan Feng and Florentyna Parker share a one-shot lead at six under par following the first round of the Dubai Ladies Masters as the Australian contingent struggled to keep up with the leaders on the opening day. China&aposs Feng and Parker of England both posted opening rounds of 66 to top the leaderboard in the Ladies European Tour event at the Emirates Golf Course. Feng was a picture of consistency in the United Arab Emirates, sinking three birdies on her front nine and three on the way back in, while going bogey-free for her 18 holes. Parker did card one bogey at the par-three seventh, but made amends with seven birdies, including two in succession at 12 and 13. Czech teenager Klara Spilkova had made the early running with a five-under 67, but ended the day in a share of third, alongside Sahra Hassan of Wales and American Cindy Lacrosse. The reigning champion, American Lexi Thompson, started her tournament defence with a three-under 69 to be tied 14th alongside 12 other players. That group includes Bree Arthur and Sarah Kemp, who are the best-placed Australians in the field, one stroke ahead of compatriots Kristie Smith and Nikki Garrett.
Author: Omnisport