New Zealander Simon Owen has taken the first round lead at the Coca-Cola Australian PGA Seniors Championship at Richmond Golf Club.

Owen opened the tournament with a 4-under 66 to hold a one shot lead over European Seniors Tour player Terry Price (67).

Other notables well in contention include Michael Harwood (68), Craig Warren (68) and David Good (68).

Owen will be looking to add the Australian Senior PGA title to his already impressive resume which includes two New Zealand PGA Senior Championships and a runner-up finish at the 1978 Open Championship behind Jack Nicklaus.

Despite closing with a bogey on the short par-4 18th, Defending champion Darryl Purchase started his defence with a solid 1-under 69.

PGA Legends Tour Committee Chairman Rodger Davis praised the work from the Richmond Club in preparing for the Championship.

"The course is exceptional; it has come on even more over the last twelve months and is a great test of golf," said Davis.

Round two of the $70,000 Coca-Cola Australian PGA Seniors Championship continues tomorrow with the leading 50 Professionals plus ties progressing to the final round on Saturday.

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