Miyu Yamashita opens 5-stroke lead in CPKC Women's Open as players fight mosquitoes

Edmonton, Alberta (AP) -- Miyu Yamashita seized a five-stroke lead on Friday in the CPKC Women's Open as competitors persevered through mosquito-infested conditions on the picturesque course nestled beside the North Saskatchewan River. After recording an 8-under 62 in the opening round, the 4-foot-11 Yamashita carded a 64 to tally 14 under at Royal Mayfair.

"I'm really happy," the 25-year-old Japanese golfer expressed via a translator. "With two rounds remaining, I simply wish to concentrate on my game and maintain this performance." Despite her focus on birdies, Yamashita, the 2025 LPGA rookie of the year, emphasized enjoyment over scoring. American Kiara Romero shared second place with a 9-under total, following an opening 64 and a 67.

Romero, the second LPGA Tour member selected via the Elite Amateur Pathway, expressed gratitude for her debut on the Tour, emphasizing the need to simply have fun and remember it's just golf. South Korean players Soo Bin Joo and Yuri Yoshida joined Romero at 9 under, with Joo lamenting the persistent mosquito problem. Ruoning Yin ended the round with a double bogey for a 67, leaving her at 8 under.

Teenage Canadian sensation Anna Huang was 7 under after a 68, while Canadian star Brooke Henderson, two-time champion, was 5 under after a 68. Henderson expressed her admiration for the Canadian fans who show her immense support consistently. Meanwhile, top-ranked Nelly Korda, Lydia Ko, and Nelly Korda remained at 3 under and 1 under respectively.

This marks the final week of qualifying for American players aiming to secure a spot in the Solheim Cup team for the upcoming matches in the Netherlands.