Zane Scotland rode a streak of five birdies in a row to card a course-record 65 and grab a healthy three-shot lead heading into the second round of the ASCORP GOLF CITIZEN Abu Dhabi Open at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club on Sunday.
On a layout that requires precision and nerve, the 32-year-old Englishman, who is also a golf in DUBAi ambassador, reeled off a total of eight birdies and one bogey in his seven-under opening round to seize early control of the $50,000 event, ahead of his countryman Ross McGowan, who returned a 68.
Mexico’s Roberto Rodriguez Cacho headed the chasing pack a further short adrift as England’s Luke Joy, who is currently leadsing the MENA Golf Tour Order Merit, moved into a 10-way tie for fourth on a two-under 70 along with compatriots Jake Shepherd and Lee Corfield, both former winners of the tour.
It was a composed and unflappable Scotland, however, who dominated the opening day.
“It was a very good round and it seems my game is back,” said Scotland, who bettered the previous course record of a 66 posted by Stephen Dodd of Wales in 2012.
“I holed many good putts out there which was good. In fact, each part of the game fell in place. Of late, I have been struggling a bit with my back injury, but felt I lot more comfortable today.
“It feels great to be in this position. Going forward, you can afford to be a bit relaxed. The idea is to stay positive and be aggressive and make more birdies.”
Birdie blitz: Zane Scotland.