Des Smyth shot an opening round of 67, five under par, to share the lead at the US Champions Tour Qualifying Tournament at World Woods Golf Club.
Smyth, who turns 50 on February 12th, has won eight times on The European Tour, most recently in 2001 when he won the Madeira Island Open at the age of 48 years and 34 days to become the oldest winner on The European Tour International Schedule.
The Irishman, who played in two Ryder Cup Matches is attempting to win one of the eight cards which will earn full playing privileges for the 2003 Champions Tour at the conclusion of the 72 hole qualifying tournament. A minimum of eight other players will receive conditional status on the Champions Tour.
Smyth made five birdies on his front nine before coming home in level par after his one birdie was cancelled out by a bogey to share the lead with American David Edgar.
Smyth and Edgar hold a one stroke lead over a group of five players which includes Jerry MdGeem a four-time winner on the US PGA Tour, while Amyth’’s Irish compatriot Eamonn Darcy heads a group of eight players who shot 69s.
