Kim extends lead at LPGA Ochoa Invitational
MEXICO CITY: Christina Kim, who is seeking her first USLPGA win in almost a decade, posted a four-under 68 to take a five-shot lead into the final round of the Lorena Ochoa Invitational.
The 30-year-old American has one of the longest winless droughts on the tour -- her last victory came i n 2005 at the Tournament of Champions.
Kim, who began the day just one shot ahead of Paula Creamer, finished 54 holes at 14-under-par 202.
“I’m just here to enjoy myself and really just go out and try and play some good golf and try to give the people of Mexico something to enjoy while we’re out here,” Kim said.
China’s Feng Shanshan also shot a 68 at Club de Golf Mexico, which vaulted her into sole possession of second place at nine-under 207.
South Korea’s Ryu So-Yeon (69), Pornanong Phatlum (71) of Thailand and Spain’s Azahara Munoz (71) are all tied for third at eight under.
World number one Park In-Bee got into contention with a threeunder 69 and she is alone in sixth at seven-under 209.
Kim was steady once again on Saturday as she began her day with two birdies on her first three holes.
A bogey at the par-three fifth hole was just Kim’s third of the week, and it was the first and only one she made in the third round.
“I’ve been really working hard on the game. My caddy and I have been using the mindset every day is Sunday because the previous six weeks in Asia, I’ve been putting up really good scores on Sunday,” Kim said.
Defending champion Lexi Thompson fired a two-under 70, her third consecutive round in the 70s, and she is tied for 10th at four-under 212.
American Michelle Wie, the 2009 champion, shot a one-under 71 and she is tied for 12th at threeunder 213. - AFP