New Zealand’s Simon Owen, the man best remembered for finishing second to Jack Nicklaus in the 1978 Open Championship, shot a fine three under par 66 to take a share of the opening round lead in the Ryder Cup Wales Seniors Open.
On a wet and windy day at Royal St David’s Golf Club, Owen and Australian Noel Ratcliffe moved to the top of the leader board and were two of only four players to break par in the European Seniors Tour event.
Australian David Good and Ray Carrasco from the United States carded 68s, while England’s Denis Durnian came in with a 69.
Former F1 World Champion Nigel Mansell, competing as an amateur, fired a 77.
Owen impressed all with his performance that consisted of four birdies and one bogey.
“It was difficult out there although obviously when you shoot 66 you are not finding it as difficult as other players. I hit a lot of greens, I wouldn’t say I holed any long putts,” said Owen.
The New Zealander has won once before on the Seniors Tour in the Tunisian Seniors Open in 2001.
“I played nicely. I have had some good results on links courses. To be honest it is not my favourite form of golf but I feel when I am playing well I have the game to play links golf. I have been playing well and my confidence is quite high but on a course like this you never know what might happen,” added the Kiwi.
Ratcliffe birdied 13 and 15 to catch Owen and position himself nicely going into the weekend.
“I am delighted with that round. It was very difficult out there. The closing holes were tough so it was great to be able to make up some ground over them,” said Ratcliffe.
The Australian has claimed seven titles on the Seniors Tour and been in contention several times this year.
“I led going into the final round at the AIB Irish Seniors Open but played poorly on the last day. That was disappointing and I am looking to make up for that at some point this year,” added the Australian.
Defending champion Bill Longmuir from Scotland carded a 72 while current Order of Merit leader England’s Carl Mason shot a 74.
The tournament marks Mason’s first tournament back following a two week lay off due to a back injury. “It’s nice to be playing again but it was a tough day to get back into things,” said Mason, who has won twice this season.
