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Breesman leads after first day

CRYSTAL RIVER -- Barbara Breesman shot 77 to lead by a stroke after the first day of the 33rd Lollypop Invitational at Seven Rivers Golf and Country Club.

Two players broke 80, with Karen Greenway in second at 78.

Breesmen, who has won the event four times, was pleased with the weather and the course, and said she hit the ball well, especially on the back nine.

"I had four three-putt greens and made some good putts on 17 and 18 for par," said Breesmen, who carries a 3-handicap. "I got off the first tee and took a deep breath. I didn't get into much trouble (the rest of the way)."

Both top participants call The Dunes, which is located in Hernando County, their home course. The familiarity was cause for a friendly rivalry, Greenway said.

"Barbara and I play at the same club and on course very close," Greenway said with a smile. "We want each other to play well but Barbara has always been a dominant player and I'm looking forward to beating her."

Greenway, who carries a 1-handicap, birdied No. 15 and parred 16, 17 and 18. She said she was striking the ball well, but had problems with the greens.

"The conditions were tough and the course is not easy," Greenway said. "There are a lot of hazards."

Marta Hughes had 81 and Dot Bird carded 82 to round out the top four, who will start together today.

Defending champ Jean Keen shot an 85, but Breesmen said she expects Keen to bounce back today. Breesmen and Keen recently tied for first at the Sweet & Simple Invitational, a one-day tournament held at The Dunes.

Today's final round starts at 9 a.m.

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