Eaks has 1st-round lead at Greater Hickory

CONOVER, N.C., Sept. 13 (UPI) -- R.W. Eaks opened his defense of the Greater Hickory Classic in Conover, N.C., Friday with an 11-under 61.

Tom Jenkins shot an 8-under 64, and Fred Funk had a 7-under 65.

"I had a wonderful day," said Eaks. "I had a great time playing with those guys today."

Eaks birdied the first hole, eagled the par-five fourth and then strung together four straight birdies for a 29 on the front nine. He kept it going on the 10th hole, sinking a nine-foot putt for yet another birdie.

Boeing Classic winner Tom Kite is tied for fourth with Bruce Vaughan, Tom Purtzer, Dan Forsman and Tom McKnight at 6-under 66.