Monty is in charge
Colin Montgomerie finished the first round of the Volvo Masters with a share of the lead and a five-shot advantage over his closest rival for the European Order of Merit title, Michael Campbell.
The Scot, who is playing alongside Campbell for the first two days in Valderrama, shot an opening 67 to end the day on four under par, the same score as reigning champion Ian Poulter.
Campbell must finish above Montgomerie to have any chance of winning a first Order of Merit but could only manage a one over par 73. That leaves him tied for 23rd place.
The New Zealander is currently £103,707 behind his rival in the standings. As it stands, a record eighth Order of Merit beckons for Montgomerie, who admitted to feeling a few nerves before the start. “It’s pleasing because the last few days have been difficult,” he said. “I’ve got everything to lose if you like, but I love this golf course and I got rid of the anxiety in the first three holes.”
Poulter is searching for a first victory of the season. The Englishman hopes to maintain a proud record of winning at least one tour event every season since 2000. However, like last year, he will have to finish first in Valderrama in order to do so.
“I have no option other than to win. It was exactly the same last year. There is no other focus on my brain right now and that’s a lesson I have to learn every single week,” said Poulter.
Jose Maria Olazabal again tapped into the vein of good form that saw him win the Mallorca Classic last weekend as he finished round one on three under, just one behind the leaders. England’s Luke Donald and Sergio Garcia of Spain were also tied for third place. Swede Robert Karlsson and Englishman Steve Webster are on two under par.
Jean Van de Velde reopened the debate on whether women should be allowed to play in the Open Championship by stating his intention to enter the Women’s Open. The Frenchman said: “Where do we draw the line? If women enter our tournaments it applies that men can play with women.”