'1R Solo Leader' Jung Yoonji "Thanks to Time Management and Reorganization"

Five birdies in a row without a look, 5-under 67 sets stage for second season win
One stroke behind 2nd place group, 'Defending Champion' Kim Hyoju at 3-under par

Jung Yoon-ji is hitting an iron shot on the 10th hole during the first round of the KLPGA Tour 'OK Financial Group Park Seri INVITATIONAL' held on the 23rd at Serenity CC in Cheongju, Chungbuk.
[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Choi Taewon] Jeong Yoonji (22) shot a 5-under-par 67 in the first round of the KLPGA Tour OK Financial Group Park Seri Invitational (total prize 800 million KRW) held on the 23rd at Serenity Country Club (par 72) in Cheongju, Chungbuk, topping the leaderboard.

Jeong Yoonji has been in excellent condition recently, finishing within the top 5 in all but one of the last four tournaments, where she withdrew due to back pain.

The reason for her upward trend is attributed to proper time management and readjustment. Jeong said, "The day after the tournament, I used my time as efficiently as possible to readjust. Because I was able to readjust well, I could maintain a good feel."

On this day as well, Jeong recorded five birdies without any bogeys, taking the sole lead.

She made her first birdie on the 15th hole (par 3), the sixth hole of the round, then entered the leading group with consecutive birdies on the 17th hole (par 3) and 18th hole (par 5). She also showed good form with birdies on the 1st hole (par 4) and 5th hole (par 5).

Jeong said, "My putting was good," adding, "Even when I missed the green, thanks to putting, I was able to finish the round without any bogeys."

Although Jeong Yoonji has a chance for her second win of the season, it is too early to relax. The second-place group, including Yoo Haeran (21), Jang Eunsoo (24), and Lee Jihyun (24), who all shot 4-under-par 68, are chasing just one stroke behind.

Defending champion Kim Hyoju (27) also shot 3-under-par 69 with four birdies and one bogey despite having neck muscle stiffness.

After finishing the first round tied for 5th place and receiving physical therapy, Kim Hyoju started practice and expressed strong determination to defend her title, saying, "I hope the pain will lessen tomorrow. I want to make more birdies."

Park Minji (24), who secured her fourth win of the season at the KB Financial Star Championship, finished the first round even par 72, exchanging two birdies for two bogeys.