Lombard happy with start

Zander Lombard was delighted at how he handled the conditions on day one to take an early lead in the Australian PGA Championship.

Strong winds on the Gold Coast made scoring tough in the opening round and only six players in the field managed to shoot a score better than level par.

Lombard was one of those as the 20-year-old made five birdies and no bogeys as the South African signed for a five-under 67 to lead by two strokes.

The world number 800, who is searching for his maiden win on the European Tour, was happy to start the tournament in good form and overcome the elements.

“I played really well, hit the ball solidly and it always helps things when you strike it well,” he said. “It definitely got tricky out there but I think I managed it well.”

Mark Foster is the closest challenger to Lombard after the Englishman carded a three-under 69 to sit just two strokes off the pace heading into Friday’s play.

Dylan Frittelli is in a two-way tie for third on -2, alongside Australian Ashley Hall, after both players managed to battle the swirling wind to shoot scores of 70.

Todd Sinnott and Adam Stephens, both hoping to win the event on home soil, are the only other players that managed to finish under par and the pair are four off the lead on -1.

However, it was a day to forget for Brandt Snedeker after the American, who is the highest ranked participant in the event, carded a 12-over 84 to sit in a share of 150th.

Tagged Zander Lombard