New Zealand’s Momoka Kobori leads the way at the Hills Open after carding a four-under-par 67 in the opening round at Hills Golf & Sports Club. In blustery and demanding conditions, the 26-year-old produced a composed front nine before making three consecutive birdies on the back nine to set the pace.

Chasing closely behind are seven players tied for second at three-under, including three Swedes who made the most of their home advantage. Amateur standout Meja Ortengren impressed with four birdies and just one dropped shot, backed by strong support from family and her brother on the bag. Hills member and three-time LET winner Linda Wessberg used her extensive knowledge of the course to stay near the top, while Lisa Pettersson showed her scoring power with an eagle and six birdies, finishing strongly despite a couple of setbacks.

Among those at -3 are also Norway’s Madelene Stavnar, England’s Alice Hewson, France’s Nastasia Nadaud, and Spain’s Luna Sobron Galmes. A further shot back at -2 sits another Swede, Ingrid Lindblad, who bounced back with solid play after recent struggles off the tee. She is joined by Australia’s Maddison Hinson-Tolchard and Wales’ Darcey Harry, both rookies making a strong start in Sweden.

With challenging winds expected to continue, patience and smart play will once again be key as round two begins Friday morning at 8:00am.