The 2021 champions, Thriston Lawrence, got off to a flying start during round one of the co-sanctioned Joburg Open at the Houghton Golf Club to set a new course record.

Lawrence fired a bogey-free opening round of eight-under-par 62 to hold a three-stroke lead over fellow South African Nikil Rama.

Former champions, Andy Sullivan, and Dan Bradbury, who are both from England, were a further stroke back in a share of third with six other players.

Lawrence said it all came together for him in the opening round.

“The putter was hot and it felt like I was reading the putts really nicely,” said Lawrence, who finished fifth last week at the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai.

“The greens are firm so you could play some nice shots and plan for the undulations on these greens.

“I was pin high a few times, the proximity to the hole was good and the putter was on fire.”

The Sunshine Tour rookie, Rama, in his turn said the is just enjoying playing on a DP World Tour event for the first time.

“I’ve been playing really well and it’s good to see it pay off again. I know this golf course well. There was a bit of breeze but my game was very solid.

“I’m just enjoying it. It’s great being able to compete in a Sunshine Tour and DP World Tour co-sanctioned event.”

Rama has qualified to play in next week’s SA Open at the Blair Athol Golf and Equestrian Estate.

MJ Viljoen, who hails from Bloemfontein opened his tournament with three-under-par for a share of 13th. The LIV golfer, Dean Burmester in turn opened his tournament with a solid two-under-par 68.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport