Former Big Island resident Kimberly Kim shot even-par 72 yesterday to take a four-stroke lead into today's final round of the Thunderbird International Junior at Scottsdale, Ariz.

Kim, who now lives in Arizona, stands at 5-under 139 in the 36-player field for 14- to 18-year-olds. Joanne Lee, of San Carlos, Calif., is second at 71—143. Ayaka Kaneko, a Sacred Hearts student, fell from a tie for second to a tie for ninth at 77—147. Stephanie Kono, a Punahou School student, is tied for 28th at 77—153.

Arnond Vongvanij, of Bradenton, Fla., shot a 67 to open a seven-stroke lead at 11-under 133 in the 42-player boys division.

The tournament attracts the top junior golfers in the world.

Kim, who started on the back nine and bogeyed two out of her first three holes, remained focused despite the tentative start. She said she misread the hole location at No. 10 as the No. 1 hole, and felt nervous at first.

"I had a good chip and putt to finish with a bogey on No. 10, but the pin placements were very hard today," Kim said. "Yesterday, I was hitting my shots close and making easy putts. Today, I really had to think so I actually feel better about my round because I worked hard."

Kim steadied herself, making mostly pars, and birdied Nos. 7 and 8 to finish at even-par.

"I've always been nervous at this tournament because it plays so hard," Kim said. "To be leading is unbelievable and a win here would be great."

The American Junior Golf Association provided information.