Overton defies conditions

Weather fails to halt 25-year-old's charge

Last updated: 3rd October 2008

Overton defies conditions

Overton: In charge

Turning Stone Resort Championship Leaderboard
-5 J Overton
-4 M Allen
-4 S Allan (Aus).

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Jeff Overton defied the difficult conditions at the Turning Stone Resort Championship to hold a one-shot lead after the first round.

The 25-year-old, whose only top-10 of the season came at the AT&T National, braved rain, wind and cold conditions to card a five-under 67.

And Overton admitted it had been difficult early on, with a brief spell of sun towards the end of his round spurring him on.

"It's great to be inside finally," Overton said. "It's a little warmer in here.

"I just hit a lot of great drives more than anything. The golf course is playing so long and wet I was able to take advantage of my length today.

"My last six holes or so it definitely played a little bit easier. I think it was my 14th hole or so, the sun just had come out."

Overton had dropped a shoot early on, but a run of six birdies saw him lead Michael Allen and Australian Steve Allan after the first round.

Londoner Brian Davis had a strong finish to thank as he posted a one-under 71, while three successive dropped shots saw Kenneth Ferrie finish on level-par.

Welshman Richard Johnson and Scotland's Martin Laird both struggled, though, carding rounds of 76 and 77 respectively.

Defending champion Steve Flesch was also over par, managing a round of 74.