Reuters - Scotland's Paul Lawrie again showed his liking for Celtic Manor, the 2002 champion taking a share of the early lead in the 2007 Celtic Manor Wales Open.
Lawrie carded a four under 65 over the Roman Road course to tie the lead with Australian Brett Rumford, a shot ahead of the field.
Argentine Ricardo Gonzalez was also at four-under but still had a hole to play when the tournament was suspended for two hours because of persistent rain in early afternoon.
Lawrie's 2002 victory, achieved over the adjacent Wentwood Hills course, which is being prepared for The 2010 Ryder Cup, was the Scot's last success.
A trip to play Carnoustie on Monday, where he achieved his dramatic play-off success in The Open eight years ago, put Lawrie in the right frame of mind to challenge for his sixth European Tour title.
"It had a good feel about it, playing Carnoustie," Lawrie said. "Now I'm wishing it could happen soon so we can get on with it." The Open starts at Carnoustie on July 19.
Rumford is looking for a third European Tour title and Gonzalez a fourth.
New Zealander Michael Campbell and local favourite Bradley Dredge of Wales are in the chasing pack a shot off the lead but tournament favourite and World Number Ten Retief Goosen shot a one over par 70.
