Lara, Dodd share lead at Sicilian Open

Jose Manuel Lara (file photo)

Scores

RAGUSA, Sicily – Jose Manuel Lara of Spain overcame an early double bogey to finish tied for the lead with Welshman Stephen Dodd on the opening day of the Sicilian Open.

Lara had nine birdies and finished with a 6-under 65, matching Dodd’s earlier effort Thursday on the Donnafugata Golf Resort & Spa course.

Lara was in danger of losing his tour card six months ago but won the Austrian Open in September.

Dodd combined six birdies with two bogeys before a late eagle on the par-5 16th. He has won three times on the European Tour, although his last victory came in 2006.

Raphael Jacquelin of France and Anthony Wall of England were one shot behind the leaders. Last year’s winning Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie put himself into contention with a 2-under 69.