Creamer shares lead at Aviara
Paula Creamer and Mariajo Uribe share the lead after the first round at the Kia Classic at Aviara.
Creamer braved the windy conditions to record six birdies and a bogey on the par four 15th to card a five under 67 to level with Columbia’s Uribe.
“It was swirling a lot,” said the 27-year-old.
“It was pretty inconsistent at spots out there, but you just kind of have to trust your wind map or trust and see what’s going on out there.
“I played pretty solid. I had one bogey, but I gave myself a bunch of opportunities and putted really well, made some good two-putts. I think it’s an advantage playing early in the morning and I wanted to take that advantage.”
The American is fresh off an astounding win at the HSBS Women’s Championship in Singapore, where she sank an incredible 75 foot eagle putt to win the play-off against Azahara Munoz.
“It’s beneficial any time to win, but for me, it definitely has made this season, a lot sweeter, that’s for sure,” added Creamer, who before Singapore last won in 2010.
“It’s made me believe even more in what we’re doing with my golf swing. All those hard times that I’ve been struggling with the last couple of years, it just kind of puts a cap to it and all and just shows what perseverance is all about.”
Meanwhile, world number one Inbee Park is two strokes behind after shooting a three under 69.
“My ball-striking was great,” said the South Korean.
“I hit almost probably every fairway and every green and I probably hit everything inside 15 feet. Didn’t hole anything.
“Today was like the day I could have gone 10 under, but still in the 60s. That’s all right. Three more days, keep the ball striking like this week and next week and I think it’ll be good.”
Third ranked Stacy Lewis and veteran Karrie Webb had disappointing rounds, carding 73 and 75 respectively.
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