Ariette leads the field by three strokes

Manama : Ariette Paul (87 net) leads the field by three strokes from Nicola Bailey (90) after the first day of the 28th Bahrain Ladies Open Golf Championship at Awali Golf Club.

In a total contrast to the violent winds which affected last year’s competition, the Open teed off under clear skies and light winds and Paul carded a front nine of 44 and back nine 43 which included a birdie on the 15th hole.

The championship comprises 26 players from both Awali Golf Club and the Royal Golf Club (RGC) accompanied by their caddies and without the use of buggies playing their way on foot around the rugged 6.3 km course.

After the first nine holes, Noelle Casey of the RGC (42) led the way after birdies on the 1st, 2nd and 5th holes and was two strokes ahead of Paul and defending champion Lynn St Lawrence of AGC (44), followed by Hyun Ju Lee (RGC), Susan Scott, Nicky Park and Sarah Hobday (all AGC) on 45.

The back nine saw Paul post a fantastic 43 with a birdie on the 15th and Nicola Bailey (44) posting great scores, with Scott, St Lawrence, Park, Casey and Hobday all in contention and separated by just six strokes.

Madeleine Deporto competing for the first time said, “I have been a bit nervous but enjoying every minute and doing my best in what is only my fourth tournament.”

Worthy of a mention is that Hobday opened on the first hole and Stacey Thomas on the 15th with eagles.

Leading scores (Nett): 

1) Ariette Paul (87), 2) Nicola Bailey (90), 3) Susan Scott, 4) Sarah Hobday (91), 5) Noelle Casey, 6) Lynn St Lawrence (92), 7) Nicky Park (93).