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Wilson fires first-round 66 to lead Zurich Classic

28/03/2008

American golfer Dean Wilson has taken an early lead in the Zurich Classic of New Orleans after carding a six-under-par first round of 66.

The 38-year-old shot seven birdies and one bogey, including picking up four shots in his final five holes of the day.

Wilson sits a single shot ahead of a three-man group on five under, featuring fellow Americans Briny Baird and Chez Reavie as well as Australia's Peter Lonard.

Vaughn Taylor and Steve Elkington are among four players tied for fifth on four under par.

Leading the European challenge in New Orleans is Sweden's Robert Karlsson, although he is currently four shots off the top of the leaderboard after a topsy-turvy first round.

His outward nine went well, birdying the second, seventh and ninth holes, and he looked on course for a good score when he also picked up a shot at the par-five 11th.

However, two bogey fives at the 12th and 15th pegged Karlsson back, leaving him just two under par for the day.

England's Brian Davis and Open champion Ireland's Padraig Harrington are just about in touch with the leaders after both men carded one-under-par first rounds of 71.