Unfancied Mathusorn Rodnen took the lead in the first round of the rain-disrupted SAT-TWT Open Road to World Ranking at the Phoenix Gold Golf and Country Club in Pattaya yesterday.
Making her sixth start as a professional, the 18-year-old sank seven birdies against a lone bogey on the first hole for a six-under-par 66.
She was one stroke ahead of hot favourite Chanettee Wannasen and Trichat Cheenglab in the 2.5 million baht tournament.
"Normally, I didn't play like this, so to be on the top of the leaderboard is quite a surprise to me," said the Hua-Hin based player, who has led a tournament on the domestic main tour for the first time.
"At the beginning, I didn't drive the ball well, but I later hit the fairways better. My approach shots also gradually improved as I hit the ball to the right position to create a lot of birdie opportunities."
Teen prodigy Chanettee, with seven birdies against two bogeys, carded a 67 to pose another strong challenge for her seventh win of the season.
"I could have done better as I made three putts on two holes. But I'm quite confident about my chance this week after my first round score," said Chanettee whose season's highlights so far included three victories on the TrustGolf Tour.
Trichat fired seven birdies against two bogeys for a 67 stay in contention.
"I have to thank my putting today. I made great putts from everywhere. I just hope to hit the irons better in the next two days," said the 27-year-old.
Four players were on 68, including 15-year-old amateur Pimpisa Rubrong, who had five birdies and one bogey, and former LPGA Tour player Patcharajutar Kongkraphan.
The tournament ends tomorrow.