DUBAI // Carlota Ciganda just keeps the good Dubai vibes flowing.
The Spaniard is back for the first time at the place where she clinched last season’s Order of Merit crown, when she emerged from a duel with Caroline Masson clutching the trophy awarded to the most consistent golfer on the Ladies European Tour.
Twelve months on, and she could depart the emirate with yet another prize.
“This is my fifth year playing this tournament and I really enjoy Dubai, the course and the atmosphere,” Ciganda said Wednesday after opening the 2013 Omega Dubai Ladies Masters with a leaderboard-topping, 5-under 67. “So it really helps that you know this place.”
Ciganda shares the summit with compatriot Mireia Prat and Sweden’s Pernilla Lindberg, who were among the earliest groups off the tee in a first round delayed 30 minutes by heavy fog.
The late start meant fading light eventually curtailed the afternoon’s play, with two threesomes having to return at dawn today to complete the opening round.
However, Charley Hull managed to sneak in moments after the air horn sounded to suspend play. Until then, the booming teenager had created a real din.
Six birdies and two double-bogeys coloured Hull’s card, but the teenager remains the favourite to capture the rookie-of-the-year award after a 70 left her five shots ahead of her nearest rival for the honor, first-year player Holly Clyburn.
Four putts at the par-five 18th culminated in a frustrating seven that threatened to spoil Hull’s mood, but England’s freshest golf sensation still expects to finish a breakthrough season in fine fettle.
“Apart from 18, I’m pretty happy,” said Hull, 17. “Again, I’m not really thinking about [the rookie title], to be honest. I’m just here to win the tournament and that will take care of the other.”
To view the tournament's leaderboard, click here.
jmcauley@thenational.ae
Follow us on twitter at @SprtNationalUAE
