Steven Alker is relishing his first experience of Royal Porthcawl as he celebrated his 52nd birthday by putting himself firmly in the mix on day two at The Senior Open Presented by Rolex.
The New Zealander, who turned 52 on Friday, mixed four birdies with one bogey in his second round to card a 68 and set the clubhouse target at four under as he matched the low round of the day so far.
After finishing in a tie for third on his Senior Open debut at Gleneagles last year, Alker is targeting his second Major victory in the over-50 ranks having won the KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship last year.
He has made just three bogeys over his opening two rounds in Wales and attributes his accuracy and strategy off the tee as being integral to his strong start.
"Had two days plodding away, taking my chances when I could on the odd par 5 and odd par 4," he said.
"Different wind today. Switched around a little bit from a couple different directions. It was actually fun. It was enjoyable. I actually love playing links golf and kind of relishing it to be honest.
"I think the big thing is off the tee. Obviously if you're in the back, you're penalised.
"So a lot of different clubs off the tees. I think I've hit everything in my bag this week, and that's a good sign.
"That's the sign of a good golf course when you hit every club in your bag. Getting in the fairways is the key and attacking the flag if it's available."
In three seasons on the PGA TOUR Champions, he has proven a consistent force with six titles to his name and five top tens in eight senior major championship appearances.
Asked what his secret to success is, he replied: “Well, the game just gets easier when you turn 50, doesn't it.
“No, it's a whole mix of things. But you know, fitness and just working hard on my game. Kind of building up for turning 50.
“My game, because I kept playing and stayed competitive, that was a big key as well. Support from the family, just everything to keep going and keep playing.
“Not just one thing, but you're just pleased to be out here and playing with these guys.”
