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Sandra Gal will hope to replicate her strong start to the 2017 Oates Vic Open on Friday when she commences her second round on the Beach Course at 1:00pm off the 10th today.
The 31-year-old impressed onlookers in her opening 18 holes with a birdie on her first hole of the week and then an eagle moments later on the Creek Course, before signing for a score of 67.
Currently tied for second with a host of visiting talent, and only two strokes behind outright leader Laura Davies, Gal admits the tournament’s environment inspired her early composure.
“It was nice and calm in the beginning so I was able to capture a few birdies before it got windy in the end,” Gal said.
“I putted really well with some quality shots, I eventually made two eagles and that made up for the few bogies so I’m happy.
“I really love coming down to Australia and everyone at this tournament is so friendly and welcoming so I really do feel like I’m at home when I’m over here," she added.
“The course itself is a little bit more ‘links’ inspired and I enjoy that style of play.
“It is also very interesting to have both the men and women here; something I haven’t experienced before.”
Gal, who represented Germany in last year’s Rio Olympics, is one of the best-credentialed players in this year’s field but is not getting carried away.
“Everyone does their own thing, Laura [Davies] isn’t as big on practice so I won’t look at her as much while others practice extra but may not be in the top five so I just stick to my own routine,” she said.
If Gal, Davies or even Denmark’s Nicole Broch Larsen can continue their hot form, they are every chance to continue the International theme on the women’s honour board following victories to England’s Georgia Hall (2016) and Norway’s Marianne Skarpnord (2015).
“It is that time of the year where everyone wants to get their feet wet and they all want to get some competition under their belt heading into the new season,” Gal said.
“Yesterday’s scores were good for the spectators and we need to keep producing our best in this tournament.”