(Sydney, Australia March 4 2004) England’s Laura Davies and Christina Kuld from Denmark share the first round lead at the $Aus 550,000 AAMI Women’s Australian Open after carding four under par 68’s around Concord GC in the leafy suburbs of Australia’s Harbour Town.

Maritz – Brilliant iron play

“I’m really happy with the way I played. I was very good on the greens today and my irons were consistent and I’m really looking forward to playing tomorrow,” said the 30-year-old former British Ladies Amateur Strokeplay Champion.

Defending champion Mhairi MacKay started her tournament well, turning in one under par 34 but her back nine of 40 left her six shots off the first round lead.

And top Australians Karrie Webb and Rachel Teske will also have their work cut out to win this week. Webb carded a three over 75 and Teske had a 73.

“It’s just not happening for me,” said Webb, two time winner of this title, who has been working on her swing during her two month winter break.

“I’m not really getting anything going.”