Yuka Saso of the Philippines put on quite a show in the first round of the ANNIKA Invitational Australasia. Ranked No. 35 in World Amateur Golf Rankings, Yuka started off strong with four birdies on the front nine. After making the turn, she kept her momentum with a birdie on No. 10 to take the outright lead over Kiwi Vivian Lu. Lu made five birdies through her first six holes before falling off the top later in the round.
Saso finished with an eagle on No. 18 to give her a two-stroke lead heading into round two at Royal Wellington Golf Club. “It was really good. I didn’t expect it to go in.” Saso commented. “I am just going to keep it calm tomorrow. I am really excited.”
Also in contention is Aussie Sophie Yip. Yip finished her round with seven birdies and two bogeys, carding a 5-under-par 67 to put her in solo second.
The Aussies have a strong contingent atop the leaderboard, including Doey Choi and Hannah Park who are tied for third place at 3-under-par with South Korean Jung Miree.
The second round will take place Saturday, December 15th. For round two pairings, click here.
Click here for the full leaderboard.