Paul McGinley birdied four holes in a row to take control during the early opening round exchanges of the KLM Open in the Netherlands.
The Irish Ryder Cup hero started on the tenth at Kennemer Golf and Country Club and was soon in top form, picking up shots at the par five 12th, 13th, 14th and 15th.
Along with five pars that gave last year’s runner-up a four under par 30 on the way out, a one shot lead over compatriot Peter Lawrie.
The 35 year old dropped a shot at the first but turned things round with birdies at the next two holes and a couple more before the turn saw him reach three under through 11.
No fewer than eight players shared third place early in the opening round - Gary Orr, Bradley Dredge, Peter Hedblom, Barry Lane, Markus Brier, Phillip Price, Damien McGrane and Jorge Campillo all getting to two under.
