Aussie Green seizes Texas Open golf lead

SAN ANTONIO, Texas (AFP) - - Australian Nathan Green notched nine birdies en route to an eight-under 62 and the first-round leadin the 4.5 million-dollar Texas Open.

Green held a two-shot lead over Americans Olin Browne and Paul Claxton, who shared second on 64 on Thursday .

Green, seeking his first win on the USPGA Tour, birdied six of his first 10 holes, including five in a row from the sixth.

The 33-year-old Australian, whose best finish on the US tour this season was a third place at the Honda Classic, also had back-to-back birdies at the par-three 13th and par-five 14th.

Green picked up another stroke at 16 before his lone miscue, a bogey at the par-three 17th.

Browne started on the 10th and posted six birdies without a bogey.

Claxton also carded a bogey-free round, and birdied his last two holes to grab a share of second place.

Half a dozen players were tied for fourth on 65, including Australian Nick O'Hern, Greg Kraft, Patrick Sheehan, Jason Gore, Tim Herron and Chad Collins.

Kraft, 44, finished with a flourish, with birdies at the last three holes.

Defending champion Justin Leonard was among a host of players tied for 71st at even-par 70.

The Texas native, who beat Jesper Parnevik on the third playoff hole last year, is trying to win a record fourth Texas Open title.

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