Leona Maguire’s form of 2019 shows no signs of slowing down after the Cavan professional returned a two-under par 70 on day one of the eighth annual Symetra Classic at River Run Country Club.
The former world amateur number one’s college form when with Duke University looks to have swiftly translated to the paid circuit and Maguire sits in a share of seventh spot after posting four birdies and two bogeys in another solid round of golf.
Maguire, who has put a real focus on getting longer since turning professional, averaged 275 yards off the tee, finding 11 of 14 fairways and 13 greens in reg whilst needing 29 putts to navigate her way around the first 18 holes.
After compiling four straight top-5 finishes in recent weeks, Maguire now finds herself just four shots back of Spain’s Nuria Iturrios, who fired a “Road to the LPGA” career-low score six-under 66 in the first round to take the early advantage.
“There are still 36 holes to play, so I just want to keep playing like that and make the putts because I made ones I didn’t last week,” said Iturrios, who recorded seven birdies and one bogey. “I really like the course. Last year it was so wet and we didn’t play the last round. I really enjoy it and have the best host family here. It fits me well so let’s keep enjoying.”
The 23-year-old Spaniard is now seeing results stateside translate from her outstanding performances on the Ladies European Tour earlier this year. In the span of a week, Iturrios won the Lalla Meryem Cup on April 28 and Omega Dubai Moonlight Classic on May 3. Capturing back-to-back titles has instilled a confidence and passion that is paving the way for her success.
“I’m happy and let’s keep going,” Iturrios said with a smile. “I’m playing good, so solid with the irons and I made a lot of putts on LET. If I keep my mind like this, I can win whenever.”
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