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Diaz leads after first round in China

Laura Diaz, shown in a 2005 file photo, owns the first-round lead at the LPGA's first tournament in China. She shot a 9-under-par 63 Friday. (UPI Photo/Brian Kersey)
Laura Diaz, shown in a 2005 file photo, owns the first-round lead at the LPGA's first tournament in China. She shot a 9-under-par 63 Friday. (UPI Photo/Brian Kersey) | License Photo

HAIKOU, China, Oct. 24 (UPI) -- Laura Diaz, fueled by a 30 on the second nine, posted a 9-under-par 63 Friday in the first round of the $1.8 million Grand China Air LPGA tournament in China.

Diaz owns a 3-stroke lead over Lee Seon-hwa while H.J. Choi and Karen Stupples are tied for third at 5-under 67.

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Diaz made the turn at 3-under, despite a bogey at the par 3 fifth hole after needing two putts to hole out from three feet away. She had a birdie at No. 10, parred 11 and then ran off three consecutive birdies. After pars at 15 and 16, Diaz closed with birdies at 17 and 18.

"It was a very enjoyable 63," Diaz said. "I felt very confident out there. I had a great pairing, played with Leta Lindley and Juli Inkster, and they are two of my good friends and it was just a lot of fun."

Lee's 66 was bogey free as she was 3-under on both sides.

The Grand China Air is the first LPGA Tour tournament in China. The field includes 51 LPGA players, eight China Golf Association players and four sponsor invitees.

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