Pavan and Lu lead in Hong Kong

Italy’s Andrea Pavan and Taiwan’s Lu Wei-chih share a one-shot lead after day one of the Hong Kong Open in Fanling.

Pavan produced seven birdies and a single bogey on his way to a 64 while Lu matched that score but with one more birdie and an extra bogey to join him on six-under.

With him currently sitting 191st on the Race to Dubai, the Italian admits he has had a tough season so far and needs to finish second or better to keep his card.

Despite his precarious situation, the 26-year-old remains upbeat and is confident he can give himself the best chance possible of avoiding a trip back to Q-School.

“This year has been a struggle to say the least,” he told the European Tour’s official website. “I’m just trying to big deep and really look forward to every week. Obviously this is the last of the year, and then I’m looking to go to Q-School. So it’s all about just giving myself chances.

“It’s all about just waiting. I know I have what it takes. It’s been tough last year and this year, but it’s all a learning curve and I really hope I can make the next step soon.”

Justin Rose is part of a three man group one back alongside Jeev Milkha Singh and CT Pan after a 65, while Graeme McDowell is one of those a further stroke behind on four-under.

Following his late entry into the tournament at Hong Kong GC, Ian Poulter started solidly with a 67 while his 2014 Ryder Cup team-mate Victor Dubuisson is one of those on two-under heading into Friday’s second round.

Tagged Andrea Pavan, Honk Kong Open, Lu Wei-chih