Day One Highlights at the Irish Women's Open

Spain's Blanca Fernandez and Switzerland's Chiara Tamburlini both carded opening 67s to share the lead after the first round at Carton House. The duo showcased exceptional skill, each recording seven birdies and a single bogey in their rounds. Tamburlini particularly shone, picking up a shot on three of the last four holes.

Close Competition

Just one shot behind the leaders, a group of six players, including English trio Lottie Woad, Mimi Rhodes, and Hannah Screen, are hot on their heels. Swedish pair Lisa Patterson and Madelene Sagstroem, along with Alexandra Swayne from the United States Virgin Islands, complete this competitive group.

Challenging Conditions

The players faced tricky conditions, with weather fluctuating between showers and sunshine, accompanied by a swirling wind. Despite these challenges, Fernandez and Tamburlini managed to navigate the course effectively to secure their lead.

Home Favorites

Home favorite Leona Maguire had a frustrating day on the greens but remains in contention, ending day one with a 72. She is tied with three other Irish players at one-under-par. Maguire's Solheim Cup team-mates also started strongly, with Sagstrom posting the best round among them.

Looking Ahead

With just two strokes separating the top 19 players and another 11 just a shot further back, the tournament promises to be highly competitive. England's Charley Hull (-3) and Georgia Hall (-2) are well-positioned heading into day two, while Sweden's Anna Nordqvist has some ground to make up after finishing the day on two over.

Full Leaderboard

-6 B Fernandez (Esp), C Tamburlini (Swi); -5 A Swayne (USVI), L Woad (Eng), Screen (Eng), L Pettersson (Swe), M Sagstrom (Swe), M Rhodes (Eng) Selected others: -3 C Hull (Eng); -2 G Hall (Eng) -1 L Maguire (Ire); +2 A Nordqvist (Swe).