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Garrett In Front

December 01, 2009

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) -- Nikki Garrett shot a 5-under 67 on Wednesday to take the lead after the first round of the LPGA qualifying tournament.

The Australian played her round at the Champions Course at LPGA International.

French star Gwaldys Nocera, a member of the European Solheim Cup team, was one shot off the pace. Japan's Yuki Mitsuka, Spain's Azahara Munoz, South Korean Il Hee Lee and Leah Wigger from Louisville, Ky., were another shot back after 69s.

Katie Kempter of Albuquerque, N.M., had the lowest round at the Legends Course with a 70.

There were 106 players at the start of the five-day qualifier, which will be cut to the low-70 players and ties after 72 holes. The top 20 players earn their cards.