Chowrasia emerges joint leader in bid for Indian Open title

Two-time European tour winner, SSP Chowrasia today launched his bid to win the Hero Indian Open on a resounding note as he fired a blemish-free six-under 65 to share the lead after the opening day of the tri-sanctioned event here.
The 36-year-old, who has finished second twice in the Indian Open, picked up six birdies to share the lead with Richard Lee (Canada), Chapchai Nirat (Thailand), Siddikur Rahman and Joakim Lagergren (Sweden) at the tricky Delhi Golf Course (DGC) here.
"I played very well and was bogey free. I made some good putts and was hitting it good off the tees. It looked easy but it wasn't! My putting was good so that's the key," Chowrasia told reporters after his round.

"I've played here many times so I know how to play in this course. I used all my experience today. Richard (T Lee) was playing well as well so it was fun to play with him.
"This is my National Open and all the Indian golfers enjoy playing in this event. I'm not thinking too much about the course, I'm just enjoying myself," said Chowrasia, who won his first European tour title after clinching the inaugural Indian Masters in February, 2008.
A 10th tee starter, Chowrasia sank birdies at the 12th, 17th and 18th holes to reach the turn in 32 before picking up further birdies at the first, sixth and eighth in a flawless round.

"All my family and friends are here so that's nice. The winning score will be about 20-under. I'm playing well and I have good memories here," he said.