Niclas Johansson, Pavan Sagoo take early lead at Qatar Open

Doha, Qatar: Sweden’s Niclas Johansson and England’s Pavan Sagoo shot a five-under-par 67 to share the lead after the first round of the 33rd Qatar Open Amateur Championship at Doha Golf Club course on Thursday.

Poland’s Adrian Meronk was one shot behind while compatriot Jan Szmidt Jr and Doha-based Dane Mikkel Mathiesen along with Craig Lawrie, son of former Qatar Masters winner Paul Lawrie, carded two-under 70.

Eight players, including Max Peerbooms and Id Omar Ayoub of Morocco, were at one under par.

Qatar’s Saleh Al Kaabi, who was runner-up to Dutch Pierre Verlaar two years ago was in the thick of things as he carded two-over for a joint 22nd.

Another Qatari player Jaham Jassim Al Kuwari managed a three-over 75 and was tied at 25th.

Around 100 golfers, including professional and amateur players, from 33 countries are taking part in the championship.

The winner of the amateur section, top-three professionals and top three Qatari players, will get a chance to play in the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters, which will be held next month.