Golf: Kiwi Lydia Ko makes encouraging start at Evian Championship

Lydia Ko in action. Credit: Photo - Getty Images; Video - Sky Sports

Kiwi golfer Lydia Ko has made an encouraging start to the Evian Championship, in a bid to claim another Major in France.

Ko shot a five-under opening round of 66 at Evian-Les-Bains and is just three shots off the pace in a share of fifth place - her first Major win.

Ko and her playing partner. Photo credit: Getty Images

Ko fired a bogey-free round, including five birdies, and is three shots behind outright leader Ayaka Furue of Japan.

The Kiwi was paired in her opening round with fellow former winners Ko Jin-young and Anna Nordqvist, and was full of praise for the duo.

"It's nice playing with two past champions," said Ko. "They manage their way around the golf course in ways I'm trying to learn... especially Jin Young.

"Her being the No.1-ranked player, there is always something to learn from her. I think we fed off each other really well. 

"We all have different games, but it's cool how we're able to break down the course, even though we have different ball flights and hit different distances."

Meanwhile, fellow Kiwi golfer Steven Alker is four shots off the lead at the Senior British Open Championship, after a two-under round, tied for 21st after the opening day.

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