A sensational run of birdies saw Spain&aposs Alvaro Quiros claim a share of the lead on day one of the Portugal Masters. Although originally from Cadiz, Quiros now lives near the course at Oceanico Victoria and was one of seven players to begin the week with a 65 on Thursday. Alongside the 30-year-old at six-under were David Lynn, Jamie Donaldson, Simon Thornton, Felipe Aguilar, Maximilian Kieffer and Graeme Storm. Having started on the 10th, Quiros bogeyed two of his first five holes but was level by the turn and then picked up six shots – including four in a row from the third – during a faultless second nine. “After being two over after five holes I have to be happy finishing six under,” he said. “We are too far away to say anything about the tournament – there are still three rounds to go – but this is a golf course where we know we have to shoot very low to be in contention.” Englishman Lynn, who played alongside Quiros, was laid low by the flu at last week&aposs Seve Trophy and admitted he was still suffering a little on the Algarve. “I was feeling good yesterday, better, and then this morning I wasn&apost feeling too clever again,” said Lynn. “It&aposs just one of those things – you keep taking the medication and hope it clears off. But, you know, 65 cures any ailments.” Conditions proved favourable for the early starters and Lynn was glad to take advantage. He added: “There wasn&apost a lot of wind this morning and I knew it was going to be a bit of a birdie-fest, so I wanted to get out of the traps quick. I did just that, birdieing three of the first four.” On a day of low scoring, nine players carded 66s to sit one behind the leaders, with a further 13 players a shot further back at four under. Of the Australians in the field, Richard Green carded an even 71, while Andrew Dodt was a further stroke adrift in equal 89th.
Author: Omnisport