Allen Red-Hot in Allianz Championship


Michael Allen was downright torrid in the opening round of the Allianz Championship. The $1.6 million Champions Tour event began Friday at the Old Course at Broken Sound in Boca Raton, Fla.

The 55-year-old carded six birdies on the front nine to make the turn in 6-under 30, then added four more birdies and an eagle on the par-5 18th hole for a 12-under 60 and a three-stroke lead over Scott Dunlap.

Dunlap didn't have a bad day himself, firing seven birdies and an eagle two on the par-4 fourth hole.

Allen's score matched the all-time Champions Tour record for low scoring. He became the ninth player in the history of the 50-and-over tour to shoot 60 and the first to do so on a par-72 course.

The five-time Champions Tour winner also broke the year-old course record set by defending champion Rocco Mediate, who opened with a 69 Friday.

Five strokes behind Allen are Chien Soon Lu, Wes Short, Jr. and Tom Lehman. Posting 66s were Brad Bryant and John Cook.

Reigning Charles Schwab Cup champion Kenny Perry opened with a 68.

Nick Price withdrew from the tournament after completing 11 holes. The Zimbabwean, who was 6-over par when he pulled out, has been trying to overcome torn ligaments in his left elbow last year that required surgery.

For all the scores, visit http://www.pgatour.com/champions/leaderboard.html.