Henrik Stenson took a commanding lead in the first round of the Nedbank Golf Challenge after shooting an impressive nine under par 63 at the Gary Player Country Club in Sun City.
The Swede, who started the round with three successive birdies and had an eagle on the back nine, equalled the course record set by Ernie Els in the final round of the 2002 event.
European Tour Member Stenson - who teamed up with compatriot Robert Karlsson to win the Omega Mission Hills World Cup last week - is five shots clear of nearest challenger Rory Sabbatini, and seven clear of third placed Lee Westwood, who posted a 70, going into round two.
Englishman Luke Donald continued his comeback from injury with a level par 72 to share fourth place alongside KJ Choi, Sergio Garcia, James Kingston, defending champion Trevor Immelman and Karlsson.
