Kane, Bastel Lead Early at McDonald's L.P.G.A.

Seasoned vet Lorie Kane and relative unknown Emily Bastel each fired bogey-free 66s to pace the 2008 McDonald's L.P.G.A. Championship today. Canadian Kane hit 11 fairways, had 12/18 greens in regulation, but needed only 24 putts to secure her 66. Ohioan Bastel, last year's Duramed Futures Tour money winner, hit 14 fairways, nailed 15/18 greens, and required 26 putts to accomplish the same feat as Kane. Different paths, same results. Lindsey Wright took possession of solo 2nd with a 67. Five players were tied at -4 and ten at -3. It's a tightly bunched field after day #1.

A wet golf course forced officials to move many tee boxes forward. With virtually no roll, what you got is what you got. It remains to be seen if the weather cooperates and turns this into an entirely different track by the weekend.

Defending champion Suzann Petersen checked in at -1. Lorena Ochoa stayed at sniffing distance at -3 despite a double bogey. Annika's positioned at -2. At -1 with Pettersen are Paula Creamer and Karrie Webb, both genuine threats to win this. Morgan Pressel came in with a +1, 73 and one of my favorite lady golfers, Laura Davies, registered a +3, 75. I'd love for Laura to make the cut and then make a move. She's still a big hitter, but erratic of late.

The 1st day of a golf tournament is like the 1st turn in a horse race. Positioning, bumping, settling into a pace. If we learn anything tomorrow it may very well be who's not going to win. The tension builds.

Til' next,