Milkha Singh takes lead in Philippine Open

New Delhi: Jeev Milkha Singh braved gusty winds to shoot into the mid-way lead today at the US$150,000 DHL Philippine Open golf tournament at the par-71 Riviera Golf and Country Club. Jeev, a four-time winner in Asia, carded an even par 71 for a tournament tally of three-under 139. The Indian is currently placed one stroke ahead of overnight leader Adam Groom of Australia, who shot a 75 today, according to information received here. "I like playing in the wind and I always play well in the Philippines. I chipped and putted very well today," said Jeev, whose round of 71 included two birdies and as many bogeys. There was more joy for Indian golf lovers as Amandeep Johl, Jeev's fellow Chandigarh pro, sat tied along with Englishman Jonathan Cheetham at the third position at one-under 141. Jyoti Randhawa, the Asian number one in 2002, endured a roller coaster 73, carding three birdies against five bogeys for the tied 11th place along with Vivek Bhandari and a host of other golfers at 145. (PTI)