Retno takes lead by 6 shots

JAKARTA: Leading Indonesian amateur from Jakarta Retno Mustari surged ahead for a 4-under 68 (34 34) early lead in the 25th Indonesia Ladies Amateur Open Golf Championship (ILAOGC) in Palembang on Thursday.

Retno, who has played for the country in many international events, including the prestigious Sirikit Cup, opened the round with three fine birdies to finish the opening nine at 2-under par.

On the back nine, she had three more birdies and a another bogey. In the final hole, Retno almost made it an eagle but her eight-meter putt narrowly missed.

"I just tried to keep the ball on (the fairway) and tried hard to finish it," Retno told newsmen.

Six shots back for second place was Vandana Agarwal of Calcutta, India, with a 74 (38 36). Third place was shared by two golfers, Ani Iman and Neneng Karwati, each with a 75. --JP