Kerr takes lead at Kia Classic

LOS ANGELES: Cristie Kerr fired eight birdies in an eight-under par 64 on Friday to take a five-shot lead after two rounds of the US LPGA Kia Classic in Carlsbad, California.

Kerr, 40, had a 36-hole total of 13-under 131 on an Aviara course softened by rain.

“I like winning, I like challenging myself,” said Kerr, whose 20 LPGA victories include two in 2017. “The golf ball doesn’t know an age. I’ve always said that. As long as I stay hungry, (I’m) going to just keep playing.

“I’m trying not to put limits on myself right now,” Kerr added. “I’ve got some good things going on with my swing. I had a great round.”

Kerr lifted the trophy in Carlsbad in 2015 with a final-round 65, setting a tournament scoring record of 20-under par.

Her 13-under total broke the previous 36-hole tournament record of 10-under, achieved by five players most recently Jenny Shin in 2016.