Day one digest: 2021 Cazoo Open supported by Gareth Bale

Everything you need to know from the opening round in South Wales.

Vincent was inspired, Nacho felt the sting, Matthias was playing for keeps and Horsfield was, actually, where was Sam?

Here is everything you need to know from Thursday at the 2021 Cazoo Open supported by Gareth Bale.

Norrman continues to conquer

Vincent Norrman revealed he had taken inspiration from Open Champion Collin Morikawa as he continued a stellar start to his professional career by sharing the lead after day one. The Swede only joined the paid ranks last month but already has a European Tour top five on his CV and carded a bogey free 64 to sit at seven under alongside Spaniard Nacho Elvira after 18 holes at The Celtic Manor Resort. "Two years ago (Viktor) Hovland and Morikawa proved that if you’re a good amateur you can do it," he said. "They motivate us, the guys coming up." Aim for the very top, Vincent.

A different kind of stinger

Elvira admitted he was left with "scars of war" after finding some unwelcome local foliage. The 34-year-old had a rollercoaster of an afternoon on any level as he carded nine birdies, an eagle, a double and two bogeys in a 64. His double came after he found some very heavy rough indeed on the 16th and he revealed he came out on the wrong end of his battle with the nettles. "I got stung," he said. "It stung my arm. It’s the scars of war. It’s okay."

Schmid goes pro

Just four days after claiming the Sliver Medal as low amateur at The 2021 Open Championship, Matthias Schmid was making his professional debut in Newport. He started life in the paid ranks with a 73 and was delighted to make his dreams come true. "It's great," he said. "I've been dreaming to do this a long time and it's great to finally realise that. The game is the same, I just try to be as good as I can, make as many birdies as I can and see what comes out." After finishing in the top 15 at the BMW International and then being honoured at Royal St George's Golf Club, we'd say the future is bright.

Spot the golfer

Anyone who can see Sam Horsfield in this picture wins a prize*

What a gentleman

Alexander Levy was raking his own bunkers on Thursday. One of the many reasons he is a fan favourite.

Have a gander at this

Not quite eagles but we had some feathered locals on course.

*there is no prize.