Anirban Lahiri finished with two late birdies to post a 4-under 66 and sit tied 16th after the opening round of LIV Golf Hong Kong at Fanling.
Soft conditions at the par-70 layout led to low scoring across the field, with Lahiri’s closing birdies helping him stay within reach of the leaders.
Torque GC’s Carlos Ortiz set the early pace with a remarkable 10-under 60, the lowest round in LIV Golf history. The Mexican recorded nine birdies and an eagle against one bogey to take the outright lead.
Dean Burmester sits second after an 8-under 62. The Stinger GC player, runner-up in Hong Kong last year to Sergio Garcia, produced a steady round with just one bogey.
Defending champion Sergio Garcia also started strongly with a bogey-free 7-under 63. The Fireballs GC captain hit every green in regulation and extended his streak to 63 consecutive holes at Fanling without a bogey.
Garcia shares third place with Talor Gooch, Younghan Song and Scott Vincent after the opening day.
With two rounds remaining, Lahiri remains within striking distance as the tournament heads into the second round in Hong Kong.
Photo – Asian Tour
