Graeme Storm put a lean and emotionally testing spell behind him to take the first round lead in the KLM Open on Thursday, while Ryder Cup star Martin Kaymer made a timely return to form.
A fine 63 enabled the tall Englishman to reach seven under, which put him two shots clear of Kaymer, who ended the day level with Fabrizio Zanotti of Paraguay and Frenchman Raphal Jacquelin.
Kaymer’s European team-mate Peter Hanson of Sweden was one of six players tied for fifth on four under, while Belgium’s Nicolas Colsaerts – one of Jose Maria Olazabal’s Ryder Cup picks – birdied the last to go round in 70.
But leading the way is Storm, who currently lies 114th in The Race to Dubai and faces a battle to retain his European Tour card.
In addition to struggling for form he has been forced to cope with tragedy away from the course, with his grandfather passing away prior to June’s BMW International Open.
“I’ve had a tough run and it’s all been a bit of a struggle. I’ve just not been enjoying it,” Storm explained.
“You can get punished round here but I played the best I have probably played all year. I’m just happy to get a round like that under my belt after recent months.”
Kaymer and Jacquelin each benefited from eagles at the par five 12th en route to rounds of 65, although the former – champion here in 2010 – insists there is still hard work ahead as he seeks to recapture his best form.
“Two years ago when I won here was very nice but that was a period of time I could have played golf with my eyes closed,” the German explained.
“Now is a different time when I need to work and it takes a lot of energy and a lot of concentration. I really need to focus on the things on the range.”