Paul Casey takes two-shot lead

TAMPA, Fla., March 17 (UPI) -- Paul Casey, who has one PGA Tour victory among his 11 career titles, took the lead Thursday after one round of the Transitions Championship.

Casey, ranked seventh in the world, shot a 7-under 64 at the Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club and had a two-shot advantage over three players.

The course is usually one of the tougher tests on the tour, but without any wind Thursday the players were able to produce low scores. There were 67 sub-par scores recorded.

"It was very benign out there," said Casey, whose lone victory in the United States came in Houston two years ago. "They were beautiful golfing conditions, so you have to take advantage of it."

Among those tied for second at 66 was Nick Watney, who is coming off his victory last week at the WGC-Cadillac Championship. He is trying to join Mark Wilson as a two-time winner on the circuit this season.

Garrett Willis, Scott Stallings and Martin Laird shared second place with Watney.

Defending champion Jim Furyk was among those at 67, along with Rory Sabbatini, who won the Honda Classic two weeks ago and who is playing in his 10th straight tournament. World No. 1 Martin Kaymer shot a 68.