Cristie Kerr shares first-round lead at US Women's Open 2012
American Cristie Kerr posted an explosive 69 in the opening round of the US Women’s Open 2012, grabbing a share of lead with two other American contenders.
The US Women’s Open 2012, being staged at the Blackwolf Run, Kohler, is featuring a formidable roster that includes stars like defending champion So Yeon Ryu and the 2010 champion Paula Creamer.
Kerr, who is seeking to get back on track in the current season, started the major event in an impressive style and kept most of her rivals at a distance.
Starting on the back nine, the American star made calculated putts on most of the holes and did not let other contenders rattle her. She kept ramping up pressure on every hole, but faltered on some, as she
could not maintain her balance.
Kerr amazed the spectators when she drained birdies on the 11th, 13th and 16th hole, boosting her position on the leaderboard.
The professional golfer is best known for her victory in the 2007 US Women’s Open — something analysts said is keeping her hopes alive.
The weather on Thursday played havoc to course, making it difficult for players to do their best. Hot conditions seemed to get in the way of some players, however, analysts said that the conditions are expected
to cool off a little in the next rounds.
Kerr spoke to the media, expressing her confidence in her skills. The golfing sensation said that she will try to further consolidate her lead in the second round.
“I played really well. It could have been a lot lower too. I had a wicked lip‑out on 18. I hit a perfect putt. It just horseshoed out. Then the same thing on No. 5. And then on 6 and 7 I think maybe I
barely didn't start ‑‑ I had two 7, 8‑foot birdie putts that maybe barely didn't start online,” Kerr said.
The first-round leader said that tough weather conditions troubled most of the players, and she also felt some pressure at one stage. However, she said that sticking to her work ethic helped her stay calm on
the course.
“It was just so hot. It was so hot. My husband Erik got us these little things we can dip in ice water and stick around our neck”.
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