Fuelled by energy, Hye-jin and mum-to-be Gemma brave heat to lead pack

Show of grit: South Korea’s Choi Hye-jin in action during the first round of Maybank Championship. — IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/The Star

PETALING JAYA: South Korea’s Choi Hye-jin made a strong statement, putting up a flawless eight-under 64 to seize the first round lead at the US$3mil (RM12.6mil) Maybank Cham­pionship at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club.

The 26-year-old did not let the humid weather conditions get in her way as she put up a bogey-free round highlighted by an eagle at the par-five third hole and a superb birdie chip on the 18th for a one stroke lead at the top.