Trevor Immelman ignited the European Tour challenge for the season’s final Major Championship when he moved into a share of the early clubhouse lead in the US PGA Championship at Baltusrol Golf Club in Springfield, New Jersey.
The 25 year old three time winner on The European Tour International Schedule, conquered the searing heat to post a three under par 67 to share pole position with former Open Champion Ben Curtis.
Starting at the tenth hole, Immelman reached the turn in two under par 34 before completing a flawless inward half, his only departure from par coming at the 380 yard eighth hole where a fine wedge approach left him a six foot putt for birdie which he duly dispatched.
“I am starting to get a few more Majors under my belt now and the experience is helping me,” he said. “Finishing fifth in the Masters was a huge boost and to play second to last group on the Sunday and hang in there was a nice feeling.
“Then at the Open I played really well and those two finishes have given me confidence to know what to expect playing in the Major arena. There are 18 really strong holes on this golf course and any can bite you at any time.”
Other fine early performances from European Tour Members came from former Ryder Cup Captain Bernhard Langer, who posted a two under par 68 and two members of Langer’s winning team at Oakland Hills, Luke Donald and Ian Poulter, who both opened with 69s.
