Fields grabs early lead at Texas Women's Stroke Play

MONTGOMERY, Texas — Stalee Fields of Lantana fired a 2-under 70 on Friday to take the first-round lead at the 12th Women's Stroke Play Championship at Bentwater Yacht & Country Club's Miller Course. The Kansas State standout was the only player to break par, overcoming an up-and-down front nine before adding three birdies on the inward half, including a closing birdie at the 18th, to seize a one-shot advantage.

Melay Dittrich of Spring sits alone in second after an even-par 72, while Madeline Buckley of Magnolia is third at 1-over 73. Grace Heiss of Dallas and Mia Nixon of Martins Mill share fourth place following opening rounds of 2-over 74, leaving a tightly packed leaderboard heading into Saturday's second round.