Hansen breaks course record to lead in Spain
Soren Hansen was in majestic form today
Also In The News
|
Manchester United dominated Arsenal in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final at Old Trafford but were forced to settle for a 1-0 victory. |  |
Thursday, 30, Apr 2009 10:23
A fantastic opening round from Soren Hansen saw the Dane break the course record at the Open de Espana with a nine-under-par 63.
Breaking the course record would have been a long way away from Hansen's mind when he started with a double bogey, but the 35-year-old recovered in breathtaking fashion. The Ryder Cup star putted nine birdies and an eagle in an incredible round.
Hansen has a one stroke lead over Frenchman Thomas Levet, who had actually equalled the old course record of eight-under-par 64 an hour before Hansen had finished his round.
"I played well I must admit," said Hansen. "Had a lot of birdies after a rough start with the double-bogey, but then I played fantastic from there.
"It just seemed like I was rolling the ball nicely. If I put it on the green, there was always a chance. A few of them went in so that was nice. I played unbelievable."
Local player Jose Manuel Lara and Scottish youngster Callum Macaulay also had excellent rounds and in third place on seven-under-par.
A slim looking John Daly, who has lost almost four stones after having a gastric band fitted, had a decent round of two-under-par. The highlight of the round for the colourful American came when he eagled the 7th hole.
Meanwhile, Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie was well of the pace as he could only card a level-par 72.