all scores

Minjee Lee shoots 63 to lead Palos Verdes Championship

img
Minjee Lee of Australia reacts to her par saving putt on the 11th green during the first round of the Palos Verdes Championship Presented by Bank of America at Palos Verdes Golf Club on April 28, 2022 in Palos Verdes Estates, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

Minjee Lee surged to a one-shot lead over Jin Young Ko on Thursday, firing an 8-under 63 to top the leaderboard heading into the second round at the Palos Verdes Championship.

The Australian put together a bogey-free opening round at Palos Verdes Estate, following up on a third-place tie in last weekend’s LA Open.

“I think it’s just the way like the holes are set up,” Lee said. “There are a lot of birdie opportunities starting the front nine. I just think there are a lot of opportunities in a row that you can kind of capitalize on.”

Ko carded six-straight birdies to come within one stroke of Lee, gathering herself after a meltdown at Wilshire Country Club.

“Before starting today, I just remind that golf is golf,” Ko said. “Don’t think about last week. Starting again, new routine.”

Palos Verdes Championship action continues on Friday as Lee continues her quest for her seventh LPGA Tour victory.