Koch opens three-shot lead in LPGA event

MORELIA, Mexico, April 22 (UPI) -- Carin Koch took a three-shot lead Friday after two rounds of the Corona Morelia Championship.

Koch shot a 3-under 69 for a 36-hole total of 7-under 137. Wendy Ward, looking for her second straight victory, was at 140.

First-round leader Natalie Gulbis stumbled to a 75, but she was still tied for third at 141 with Maria Hjorth.

Koch began her round by holing a 97-yard wedge shot for an eagle at the par-4 first.

Ward won last week at the Takefuji Classic in Las Vegas.

"I feel good about my game," Ward said. "I don't feel any different about it than last week, so that is a positive."