Japanese Hana Wakimoto took the lead with a 9-under 63 in the first round of the LPGA Toto Classic

SHIGA, Japan (AP) — Japan’s Hana Wakimoto shot a bogey-free 63 to lead by two shots after the first round of the LPGA’s Toto Classic in Japan on Thursday.

South Korean Jin Young Ko was two points behind with a 65 at Seta Golf Course. Four players carded 66s to come within three shots of Wakimoto: Linn Grant, Ayake Furue, Hyo Joo Kim and Jenny Shin.

Wakimoto’s score equaled the Seta course record and was the best lap of his career.

“My ball striking has been very good lately, so I’m confident and I can attack the pins today,” said Wakimoto, who leads in most birdies made (9) and is tied for the fewest putts. first round.

Australian Minjee Lee took seventh place after shooting 67 and Canadian Brooke Henderson 70. In the 78-player, uninterrupted field, only eight players scored above par after the first round.

___

AP golf: