Charley Hull and Catriona Matthew are happy to be in the hunt after day one of the first women’s Olympic golf tournament in 116 years.
Thailand’s Ariya Jutanugarn leads with six under but the Team GB pair aren’t far behind with Hull carding a three under 68 while Matthew was level par with a score of 71.
The format is the same as the men’s event with a four day strokeplay competition deciding the medals on Friday and Matthew knows the early stages of this historic event are all about getting into contention.
“It’s slightly different from what we’re used to and I was slightly nervous off the tee,” said Matthew.
“I’m sure it’ll be feel quite different on the final day if I’m in with a chance of a medal but at the moment it’s about trying to get into position.
“Team GB have had a fantastic record here so far and hopefully it will spur us on. It’s been great here in Rio so far – I’ve loved it.”
Hull, who won the 2014 Ladies European Tour Order of Merit, began in fine form with a birdie on the first before ending the day just three shots back.
“I left a few shots out there on the back nine but I’m pleased with how I was hitting it and gave myself plenty of birdie opportunities,” said the 20-year-old.
“I’m pretty happy with my score and pleased to birdie the first. It’s a very birdieable hole but it’s pretty cool to say I birdied the first hole in the Olympics.”