EVIAN-LES-BAINS, France: Paula Reto had eight birdies as she carded a 7-under 64 to take a surprise first-round lead at the Evian Championship on Thursday.
The 33-year-old South African holds a two-shot lead over 2015 champion Lydia Ko of New Zealand and three other players locked on 66: Frenchwoman Celine Boutier, American Alison Lee, and Thai golfer Wichanee Meechai — who recovered from a bogey and a double bogey early on. “I had so much fun,” Reto said. “The views and everything, it’s just awesome to be here.
I hit some good quality shots beginning of the round and just gave myself opportunities.” Reto’s stellar round was perhaps surprising because she has only won one tournament on the LPGA Tour and has never placed higher than 18th at a major championship. “You never know out here with this golf course.
Anything is possible,” Reto said. “You’ve just got to give yourself the best opportunity to make par and birdie.” Her only blemish was a bogey on the 11th hole at the Evian Resort Golf Club, which celebrated its 10th anniversary as a major.