Hernandez holds onto lead
Maria Hernandez will take a one shot lead in the third round of the Lacoste Ladies Open de France after carding a three-under 67 in Friday’s second round.
The Spaniard carded birdies on the seventh, ninth holes, 13th and 14th holes and bogeys on the 11th and 18th at the Golf de Chantaco in St Jean de Luz.
Hernandez is currently eight-under par after her 65 in the opening round. The 28-year-old said she was happy with her performance.
“It was a good day out there today again. I was playing very solid. I hit the ball very consistent through 18 holes and didn’t miss a shot,” she said.
“I just made a couple of mistakes with my putter and that was it: that’s why the round wasn’t lower.”
Three players share second place on seven-under. Spaniard Carlota Ciganda and England’s Florentyna Parker both shot 67’s, while 16-year-old Swiss player Albane Valenzuela carded an excellent 64.
Valenzuela, playing in her first professional tournament, shot a near perfect round.
She hit a bogey on the 15th hole, birdies on the seventh, ninth, 10th, 16 and 17th, and an eagle on the 11th.
“I had no expectations coming here. I just wanted to make the cut and have fun,” she said.
“The way I’ve played today was just awesome and I feel really, really happy. It’s a great day.”
Defending champion Azahara Munoz is tied for fifth on five-under with Isabelle Boineau and Charley Hull after respective scores 68, 68 and 67.
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