(Chart Hills, Biddenden – Friday 8 July 2005) Katie Bakken from the USA carded a faultless seven-under-par 65 to take the outright lead in the first round of the KSPoker.com Ladies English Open at Chart Hills GC.

Laura Davies

Davies, who played with the reigning Weetabix Women’s British Open Champion Karen Stupples and Catriona Matthew, was delighted to be leading at lunch time.

“I had five nice birdies and only missed one green, where I misjudged the wind on seven,” said Davies.

“I think it’s really important to get off to a good start, especially if the weather turns nasty later on.

“Coming here today, I didn’t know what to expect because I messed it up here last year and came 42nd or something.” (Davies actually finished tied for 32nd position).

“I probably won’t be leading by the end of the day, but I’m going to go home, kick back and relax now before tomorrow.”

The 20-year-old Blomqvist, who had a career low 62 at both the Weetabix Women’s British Open and the OTP Bank Central European Open in Hungary last year, was happy to rediscover her form.

“I’ve lost a bit of confidence lately but today I was hitting the ball much better,” she admitted.