Great finish leaves Durant out in front

JOE Durant claimed a one-shot lead at the Mayakoba Golf Classic in Quintana Roo, Mexico, after a blistering finish to his opening round yesterday.

The Floridian birdied five of his final eight holes to record a seven-under 64 and holds a narrow advantage over four players who shot 65s.

“I would much rather have a good start than go in the opposite direction, that’s for sure,” said Durant after his impressive finish.

“I just felt comfortable out there today.

“Obviously, we have a long way to go, but having a good first round can set a nice tone for you the rest of the week.

“I just need to keep doing the same things and keep myself in the hunt.”

Cameron Beckman, Briny Baird, Jarrod Lyle and JP Hayes are joint second with Tom Pernice, jun, Shigeki Maruyama, Jason Gore, Jeff Maggert and Thomas Levet a further shot back after shooting 66s.

John Daly was among a clutch of players on three under after day one.