Watney leads in Shanghai

American Nick Watney tied the course record with a virtually flawless eight-under-par 64 to open up a two-stroke lead at the World Golf Championships-HSBC Champions in Shanghai today.

With an unusually large first-day crowd watching world number one Tiger Woods card an opening round five-under-par 67, the spectators might have paid closer attention to Buick Invitational winner Watney as the two-time US PGA Tour winner claimed the clubhouse lead ahead of compatriot Ryan Moore and Race to Dubai contender Martin Kaymer.