Mcilroy and Lowry share lead in team event at TPC

Rory Mcilroy is enjoying his first visit to New Orleans — on and off the course.

Mcilroy and Shane Lowry shot an 11-under 61 in fourball play Thursday for a share of the firstround lead in the Zurich Classic of New Orleans, the PGA Tour’s only team event.

The Irish duo shared the lead with the teams of Ryan Brehm-mark Hubbard, Ben Kohles-patton Kizzire and

Aaron Rai-david Lipsky.

Davis Thompson-andrew Novak, Thomas Detry-robert Macintyre and Cameron Champ-m.j. Daffue were at 62 Twenty teams were 9 under or better on a crowded leaderboard at TPC of Louisiana.

Mcilroy’s introduction to New Orleans included a sampling of crab beignets from popular restaurant La Petite Grocery on Wednesday night, a meal he shared with Lowry. On Thursday, they feasted on the Pete Dye layout, birdieing their first four holes.

“I’ve had a wonderful time so far,” Mcilroy said. “I’ve only been here a couple of days but we’re staying downtown. It’s a cool city, great food scene.”

Grace Kim leads LA Championship

Grace Kim shot a 7-under 64 at Wilshire Country Club to take the first-round lead in the LPGA Tour’s JM Eagle LA Championship.

Playing in the morning session, the 23-year-old Australian capped her bogey-free round with a chipin birdie on the par-3 18th.

“Well, I chunked my tee shot on the last hole 20 meters short and then I chipped it in it,” Kim said. “I think that’s pretty cool, in front of everyone.”

Maja Stark of Sweden, Sei Young Kim of South Korea and Chanettee Wannasaen of Thailand were a stroke back at 65. Stark finished second last week.