Argentinian records blemish-free round on opening day
Andres Romero recorded a blemish-free round to lead the Reno-Tahoe Open after the opening day in Nevada.
The Argentinian carded seven birdies - five of which came on the front nine - and did not drop any shots as he moved onto 14 points for the tournament.
After 13 years as a stroke-play event, the Reno-Tahoe organisers have made the unusual switch to a modified Stableford system where points are scored for birdies and eagles.
Romero is one point clear of Noh Seung-yul of South Korea, who also picked up seven birdies but bogeyed the par-three seventh.
Romero said of his round: "Well, seven birdies and 11 pars, that's unusual for me. I usually do a lot of birdies and bogeys as well and very aggressive.
"But the key was the greens. I had a good feeling on the greens, and that's why I got that score."
Regarding the format, the 31-year-old, who caused a stir at The Open when footballer Carlos Tevez caddied for him in the final round, said: "This is my first time. It's unusual to see scores on the board like 14 or 12 or whatever. But I felt really good. I like the format."
American trio Josh Teater, Ricky Barnes and John Mallinger were tied for third on 11 points on the Jack Nicklaus-designed course at the Montreux Golf Club.
Ireland's three-time major winner Padraig Harrington was joint 22nd on seven points after a mixed round that saw him record an eagle - on the 18th - as well as three birdies, but also card four bogeys.
