Anirban Lahiri has a 'happy Diwali' with early lead on first day of Macau Open

Indian golf ace Anirban Lahiri said that it was a great Diwali after he shot a brilliant 10-under-par 61 to take an early lead on the opening day of the Macau Open on Thursday, with defending champions Scott Hend a shot behind.

Lahiri sank a 15-foot eagle putt on the 18th hole at the Macau Golf and Country Club for a career-low round, surpassing last year's record-equaling 62 in the final round, when he was runner up.

With Indians celebrating the festival of Diwali, the four-time Asian Tour winner pronounced it perfect timing. Lahiri said that it's a great Diwali and 'happy Diwali' to everyone back home, adding it's nice to have some fireworks on the course, Sport24 reported.

Lahiri said that he really played solid all day and it was nice to get such fantastic weather and putt well.

Meanwhile, Australian big-hitter Hend, who won the Hong Kong Open last week for his sixth Asian Tour title, stayed on fine form, nailing eight birdies and an eagle in a strong start at the 9,00,000 dollars tournament. His fellow countryman Sam Brazel was in third place on 64, while Switzerland's Martin Rominger and Australia's Adam Groom both got home in 65.

Star attraction Ernie Els of South Africa had to settle for 70 along with three-time Asian Tour number one Thongchai Jaidee. The four-time major winner said that it was not quite on his game, adding that he has got a lot of work to do.