Ochoa leads Mastercard Classic

HUIXQUILUCAN, Mexico – Lorena Ochoa finally got the best of a hilly BosqueReal course by shooting a 7-under 65 to tie the course record and take a two-shot lead in the Mastercard Classic on Friday.

The world No. 1 has always struggled on the scrubby, rugged course carved into the mountains outside of Mexico City and has yet to win this tournament in four attempts. Last year, she opened with a 4-over 76 – her worst score in nearly a year – and ended up tying for eighth.

But this weekend could be different. Ochoa had five birdies and an eagle on the 541-yard ninth hole, with a green surrounded by water.

“I saw it like in slow motion,” she said of the eagle. “I was thrilled because it was on the ninth, in front of so many people cheering.” Filipina Jennifer Rosales fired a 73. (AP)