Anirban Lahiri takes slender Macau Open lead into round two

Indian hotshot Anirban Lahiri celebrated Diwali yesterday in the best possible way with "fireworks on the course", blasting a course record 10-under-par 61 to take a one-shot lead at the Venetian Macau Open.

While hundreds of millions of Indians back home celebrated the ancient Hindu festival of lights, Lahiri decided he would do the same on a benign Coloane course as he bettered the previous best score of 62, which he held along with fellow Indian Amandeep Johl.

"It is a nice way to celebrate Diwali with having a few fireworks on the course," smiled Lahiri. "I felt really comfortable out there and it was the nicest conditions you could get with the rain making the greens soft and there being no wind at all."

The Bangalore-based Lahiri rolled in a 15-footer for an eagle on the last hole to claim the first-round lead from defending champion Scott Hend.

The Australian had only minutes earlier climbed to the top of the leader board with a superb score of 62.

"I knew Scott was on nine-under when I reached the 18th hole, and I spoke to my caddie and said it would be nice to go for the record," Lahiri said. "I played solid all day and it was the best I have putted for a while," added Lahiri, whose error-free round included eight birdies.

Early morning rain opened up the defences of the greens at the Macau Golf and Country Club and fears that the wind would pick up strength in the afternoon on a grey day did not materialise, leaving the course there for the taking.