La-quinta

Australian Robert Allenby fired a nine-under 63 here on Wednesday to seize a two-shot first round lead in the -million, five round Bob Hope Chrysler Classic. Allenby, who began on the back nine at La Quinta Country Club, carded a 32 on his first nine holes that included a pair of putts of more than 20 feet.

Justin Leonard claimed his first PGA Tour victory in nearly two years at the ,7-million Bob Hope Classic on Sunday as fellow American Joe Ogilvie’s hopes of a first career win evaporated in the final round. Leonard, who last won in 2003, posted a five-under-par 67 to win the five-round event played on four desert courses with a score of 28-under 332.

Joe Ogilvie fired a nine-under par 63 in California on Thursday to grab a three-stroke lead after the second round of the 90-hole PGA Bob Hope Classic on Thursday. The American stood on 17-under par 127, leading after 36 holes for only the second time in his career after a round that included eight birdies and an eagle.

Ted Purdy was aware of the extremely low scores the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic produced. It didn’t take him long to get into the swing of things. Purdy shot an eight-under 64 on Wednesday, and that was only good for a share of the lead — a fifth of it, to be precise. Duffy Waldorf, Fred Funk, Robert Damron and Joe Ogilvie also came in with 64s.

Masters champion Phil Mickelson hopes to kick-start his 2005 season this week when he defends his title at the ,7-million Bob Hope Classic that starts in California on Wednesday on four desert golf courses. Mickelson’s triumph in California last year ended an 18-month victory drought.