(Oct. 13, 2000) — University of Kentucky women’s golfer Rachel Lester shot a 1-under-par 71 to capture the first-round lead in the fourth annual Mercedes-Benz Women’s Collegiate Championships. As a team, the Lady Kats are currently sitting in 13th place, 25 strokes behind leader Duke.

This marks a new career low round for Lester, a sophomore from Fayetteville, Ga. Other Kats on the links include freshman Eva Gessner, who is tied for 35th place with a first-round 78 and sophomore Kelly Anders, whose score of 81 tied her for 47th. Rounding out the UK lineup is junior Kristen Pepe, who shot a 94 in opening-round action and is standing at 79th.

“Rachel came out and had a great round today,” Coach Bettie Lou Evans said. “She hit the ball real well and really chipped and putted to score well. I hope she keeps it up.”

The tournament, which runs through Sunday, Oct. 15, is being held at the Gettysvue Polo, Golf & Country Club in Knoxville, Tenn. Tomorrow’s action gets under way at 8:30 a.m.