Lauren Walsh in the hunt in France after encouraging start

Ireland's Lauren Walsh is one shot off the lead after the opening round of the Ladies Open de France near Deauville.

The 24-year-old mixed six birdies with two bogeys to finish with a four under par total of 67, to finish just behind the leading trio of England's Bel Wardle, France's Emma Grechi and Kirsten Rudgeley of Australia.

After making an encouraging start by picking up shots on the first two holes, she dropped back to level by the fifth hole. Three birdies around the turn at 8, 9 and 10 restored her momentum, and a birdie on the last saw her end the day tied for fourth spot.

The Dubliner will be looking to build on her recent solid form, including a tie for 18th at last week's La Sella Open in Spain.

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Sara Byrne is the only other Irish competitor in action, and she managed a level par round of 71.