Pulkkanen three shots ahead after first round of Volvo China Open

Tapio Pulkkanen was flawless during first-round play at the Volvo China Open on Thursday, with the Finnish veteran carding a scorching nine-under 62 for a three-stroke lead at the national championship.

Spaniard Eugenio Chacarra was second after carding a 65 at Shanghai's Enhance Anting Golf Club, two shots ahead of China's Bai Zhengkai, New Zealander Kazuma Kobori, American Jordan Gumberg, and Australians Jason Skrivener and Elvis Smylie on 67.

Xiamen native Wu Ashun was a shot back in a group of six players at a three-under 68.

China Number 1 Li Haotong opened with a two-under 69 to sit seven shots off the pace in a group of 12 players that included Shen Wang-ngai, the top amateur from Hong Kong, China.

Adrian Otaegui, the defending champion, shot a one-over 72 at the $2.55-million tournament that is celebrating its 30th anniversary.

Thirteen players were left out in the field when play was called for darkness and will complete their first round early on Friday.