Four players lead a tight leaderboard after the first round of the ISPS HANDA World Invitational Presented by AVIV Clinics.

Australia’s Karis Davidson, Switzerland’s Kim Metraux, Sweden’s Ellinor Sudow and England’s Gabriella Cowley all shot 4-under 69s at Castlerock to take the lead.

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“For my birdie on 10, it was playing quite tough into the wind,” said Cowley. “I hit a really good drive and hit 5-iron and it was just perfect; I holed a good putt. I made a few birdies today which was nice.

“Being on a links course it was windy this afternoon, so I was just trying to manage the ball flight and the kind of shots that we’re trying to hit. I think the course was playing tough, but there were obviously a few par-fives that we can reach which was good for us.

“I like Galgorm. I played there for the last few years, so looking forward to tomorrow. My plan is similar to today. Trust what I’m doing and hit the shots that I need to hit and play good golf.

“Obviously completely different course, completely different style. It’s not so much managing how much it runs out and how much the wind will affect it. It’s about picking a good number and committing to it.”

Four players also share fifth place at 3-under, France’s Anne-Charlotte Mora, Wales’ Chloe Williams, England’s Bronte Law and Sweden’s Daniela Holmqvist.

Related: Daniel Brown takes two-shot lead at Galgorm

Men's ISPS HANDA World Invitational R1