Tim Clark and Morten Orum Madsen led the inaugural Nelson Mandela Championship after the rain-delayed opening round was finally completed as Australian Scott Arnold endured a tough few days. Heavy rainfall at the Durban Golf Club postponed proceedings for two days, with the opening tournament of the 2013 European Tour season reduced to 36 holes when play eventually commenced shortly after 6am on Saturday. Home favourite Clark and Danish rookie Madsen carded five-under 60s after the course par was reduced to 65 with four holes shortened due to flooding in some areas. “It wasn&apost that easy out there, but I was amazed at how good the greens were with all the rain they had,” Clark said. “The greens were pretty firm and obviously great to putt. “I made some good putts and that&aposs really what gives me this score. “Obviously I gave myself a lot of chances, I made some good twos on some of those par threes.” South Africa&aposs Lindani Ndwandwe and Englishman Chris Lloyd were one shot behind the leaders in equal third, while local hopes Colin Nel, Christiaan Basson and Shaun Norris were among a group of 10 players in a tie for fifth at three under. Clark said there would be no room for error in what is now the second and final round. “It&aposs just the same really, just come out and try to make birdies,” he added. “If it is going to be a two round tournament, you&aposve got to go low. “Normally you can sort of pace yourself, get to the weekend, play in the weekend and sneak home; but right now you&aposve got to go as low as you can and be aggressive.” Arnold, the only Australian in the field, was tied for 128th at four over.
Author: Omnisport