Chopra joint leader, Atwal struggles again at John Deere Classic

Silvis, Illinois, July 14 (UNI) Indian-born Swede Daniel Chopra shot a flawless seven-under 64 to be the joint leader while it was another woeful start for Arjun Atwal as he carded a level-par opening round to share the 93rd spot in the four million dollar John Deere Classic.

Chopra fired five birdies and an eagle to be in joint lead with Americans JP Hayes and Zach Johnson and Australian John Senden.

However, it was another disappointing display by Atwal, who hit two birdies and an equal number of bogeys to be even-par and remain in contention to make the cut in the event.

Atwal had a blemishfree second nine but managed only a solitary birdie in it and having fumbled twice in the front nine, the Orlando-based Indian had to be content with a 71.

In contrast, Chopra put up a sizzling show to start his campaign on a bright note. The Swede gained a shot on the second hole and followed this with a brace of birdies on the fifth and sixth.

Three-under at the halfway, Chopra strengthened his position by firing two more birdies on the 14th and 16th. But the best moment of the day was an eagle on the 17th as he -- alongwith the three other joint leaders -- ended the day with a single stroke lead over nearest rival local Joe Oglivie (65).

Meanwhile, Michelle Wie, the 16-year-old school girl who is attempting to make the cut at the event, found herself completely out of sorts as she struggled to a six-over 77 to be tied 149th after the first round.

The local teenager hit six bogeys and a double-bogey against just two birdies and is unlikely to make the cut in the tournament.

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