Ichihara takes the lead

Japan’s Kodai Ichihara fired a six-under-par 66 at Wack Wack Golf and Country Club on Thursday to take a one-stroke lead after the opening round of the Philippine Open.

The 25-year-old from Tokyo, who earned his card at the Asian Tour Qualifying School last December, fired seven birdies and one bogey to edge a shot ahead of Australia’s Gavin Flint and local player Benjie Magada in the Asian Tour event.

Chawalit Plaphol of Thailand and Ashley Hall of Australia were tied for fourth after opening 68s while another Australian, Michael Wright, was alone in sixth on three under.

Defending champion Frankie Minoza was well off the pace after opening with a four-over 76.

Playing in the day’s second-last flight, Ichihara gathered momentum after holing a 36-foot birdie at the fourth hole in what is only his third tournament of the season on the Asian tour.

“This is my first time playing at the Wack Wack Golf and Country Club and I love it here,” said the Japanese player, who finished in a tie for 15th at Qualifying School.

“I like challenging courses because I’m not a long hitter. I’m more suited to difficult courses that require a lot of thinking.”

Magada was the highest ranked of the Filipino players after firing that included five birdies and an eagle at the par-five fifth.

“I did not have much tournament exposure prior to this week so I am quite surprised to be among the top players,” said the 41-year-old, who plays mainly on the Philippines domestic circuit.

“My putting and driving has been the key for me today. I finished in the top-10 last year and I hope to better than result this week.

“I am happy to have a good start and I hope to keep it this way right through the end.”