Taipei: Lin Wen-tang of Taiwan produced a bogey-free five-under-par 67 to share the opening round lead with countryman Hung Chun-kang at the Yeangder Tournament Players Championship yesterday.
Lin, a six-time Asian Tour winner, and unheralded Hung, who turned professional two years ago, held a slim one-shot lead at the US$500,000 Asian Tour event.
Miguel Tabuena of the Philippines, who finished second last year, Shaun Norris of South Africa, Panuphol Pittayarat of Thailand and India's Khalin Joshi tied for third place alongside Taiwanese duo Hung Chien-yao and veteran Lu Wen-teh.
Defending champion Prom Meesawat of Thailand opened his campaign with a solid 70 to trail the leaders by three shots at the Linkou International Golf and Country Club.
Lin's decision to focus on his health and fitness earlier this year is starting to pay-off as he fired five birdies in the calm morning conditions to be in the hunt for a first victory in 2015.
"I haven't played much on the Asian Tour because I used to get tired very easily when I travel too often. Now I've been going to the gym for half a year and it has helped a lot," said Lin.
The 24-year-old Hung, who started from the 10th tee, played without any expectations and charged into the surprise joint lead thanks to four straight birdies starting from the 16th hole.
"I didn't think about the result. I didn't force any birdies. I just took my chances when I could," said Hung.
Panuphol fired three birdies against one bogey in each half and hopes to continue his form as he searches for a first Asian Tour Victory.
"I felt comfortable out there. I felt good about the swing and putting. I hope the feeling stays the same throughout the week. I started the week good and I have to keep doing what I've been doing," said the 22-year-old.