Two share top spot at LPGA Championship

Havre De Grace -- Emily Bastel and Lorie Kane became unlikely co-leaders Thursday in the opening round of the McDonald's LPGA Championship -- the second major event of the year.

Bastel, the top player on the Futures Tour last year, and Kane, a Canadian veteran who has not won since 2001, shared the top spot at 6-under 66. They were one shot in front of Lindsey Wright.

Lorena Ochoa, the world's top-ranked player who is seeking her third consecutive major title, was tied for ninth after firing a 69. The round included a penalty stroke that led to a double bogey at the 13th hole of the Bulle Rock course.

"I think I did okay," Ochoa said. "I didn't get too stressed (after the double bogey)."

Marisa Baena, Jin Joo Hong, Maria Hjorth, Nicole Castrale and Rachel Hetherington were tied for fourth at 68. Kelli Kuehne was among those tied with Ochoa.

Three-time champion Annika Sorenstam shot a 70 and defending champ Suzann Pettersen had a 71.

Copyright 2008 by United Press International.