Ross McGowan leads the Estoril Open de Portugal after shooting a seven-under-par 64 in his opening round at Oitavos Dunes.
The 26-year-old Englishman equalled his lowest ever score at a European Tour event to finish two strokes ahead of Northern Ireland''s Michael Hoey in windy conditions at the Cascais course.
Still in search of his maiden Tour victory, McGowan signalled his intentions by birdying three of the first four holes, while Hoey stayed in contention with an eagle three at the 573-yard 16th.
Meanwhile, England''s Simon Dyson carded a 67 to sit three shots off the pace in Portugal, despite suffering from a neck problem.
Scotsman Alastair Forsyth equalled Dyson''s score, while defending champion Gregory Bourdy of France birdied five of his last seven holes for a 69.
Bourdy defeated Forsyth and David Howell in a playoff to capture the title last year.
03/04/2009