Oct26 Pettersen leads in Thailand

Suzann Pettersen can take the heat, too.

The Norwegian star won in the cold and wind of South Korea days earlier at a tournament cut short because of unplayable conditions. On Thursday, she shot a 7-under 65 at steamy Siam Country Club to take a two-stroke lead in the Honda LPGA Thailand.

“It’s very warm, but the breeze makes it quite nice,” Pettersen said. “So, I just tried to go out there and take what the course gave me. It’s like last week, you could stand and talk about the shot and then, when it’s your turn, the wind’s turned.”

Chasing her third victory in four weeks, she missed an opportunity to pull away, playing the final seven holes in 1 over after birdieing eight of the first 11.

“These greens, you just have to attack where you can attack and, if you can’t, then you have to play for the big center part,” Pettersen said. “The greens are tough because the runoffs are so severe.”

She shared attention with Thai amateur Ariya Jutanugarn, at 11 years, 11 months, 2 days the youngest qualifier to play an LPGA Tour event.

Jutanugarn, 10 strokes back after a 3-over 75, broke Michelle Wie’s mark of 12 years, 4 months, 14 days set in the 2002 Takefuji Classic. Beverly Klass holds the overall record, playing a 1967 event in Dallas at 10 years, 6 months, 3 days.

Jutanugarn’s 13-year-old sister, Moriya, served as her caddie.

Sharp, winless in two full seasons on the tour, had six birdies and a bogey in her 67 on the Pattaya Old Course.

“Last week, you had to try to stay warm and, this week, you’re sweating to death,” Sharp said. “Mentally, I think, I knew last week, with the cold weather, a lot of girls wouldn’t play very well. It’s just harder in the cold. It’s so much easier in the warmth. Now, you’re looking for shade out here this week.”