Bali, Indonesia - Flavia Pennetta needed to get through a marathon opening set before leading two fellow seeds to first-round victories on Tuesday at the Commonwealth Bank Classic.

The US Open quarter-finalist found herself in a struggle with American Vania King, who played well over her 99th ranking against the number 19 Italian.

Third seed Pennetta walked off the court relieved after securing a 7-6 (9-7), 6-1 victory with a first set which lasted an hour and a quarter.

Russian fourth seed Nadia Petrovabeat the heat after a few days of in the tropical report, overcoming Japan's Aiko Nakamura 6-3, 6-1 and pronouncing herself pleased with her quick progress.

"I feel confident and adjusted well to this weather," said the Russian who once stood third in the world just two years ago.

The number 21 added: "The first round are always the tough ones. I'm feeling better and better on court with each match and that's what counts."

Italian number seven Sara Errani hammered South African Natalie Grandin 6-2, 6-1.

Off-court, endangered sea turtles got some tender loving care as WTA players took time out to give Mother Nature a helping hand in a preservation project.

Petrova and number five 5 Francesca Schiavone plus two-time semi-finalist Patty Schnyder all aided in the effort by releasing baby turtles.

Nature preservationists hope that players can set an example for the local population on this holiday island as they show concern for turtle habitat preservation.

The amphibians on Bali are a protected species with one sea turtle only able to lay eggs after age 30. Players released 60 Ridel turtles from a coastal conservation project as part of the effort.

Top seed Daniela Hantuchova, recoving from injury and illness, was starting on Wednesday in the second round against Olga Savchuk of the Ukraine.