In the scenic coastal town of Pléneuf-Val-André, Sweden’s Björn Åkesson is making waves at the Blot Open de Bretagne.
With an astounding eight-under-par round of 62, Åkesson has positioned himself three strokes ahead of his nearest competitors, setting a blistering pace for the weekend.
Starting his round with a steady front nine, Åkesson carded two birdies and a bogey, turning at one under par.
However, it was the back nine where he truly shone, delivering back-to-back eagles on the tenth and eleventh holes.
Four more birdies and a single bogey solidified his lead at 13 under par, three shots clear of fellow Swede Per Längfors and Denmark’s Jeppe Kristian Andersen, who are tied for second place.
Reflecting on his round, Åkesson commented, “I was quite steady off the tee today and then my putter was really hot, similar to yesterday.”
“It was great to make two eagles today and hole ten is a tricky hole. I hit a three-wood onto the green today and made the three-metre putt which was great.”
“On hole 11, I hit a good drive and then only had a nine-iron into the par five, which I hit to about five metres and made the putt.”
Åkesson’s precision and strategic play are evident. His putting, particularly, has been a game-changer.
“My putting was the strongest part of my game today, and I was steady throughout the day.”
“I managed to keep the ball out of trouble and take advantage with my wedges. I tend to play well on tight courses because I am quite accurate.”
“I don’t necessarily enjoy these kinds of courses, but I think it suits my game. It’s crucial to keep the ball in play off the tee and then if you can get the ball rolling on the greens, there are lots of birdie opportunities out there.”
The 35-year-old’s journey back to competitive golf is a story of resilience and passion.
After retiring in 2017 due to losing his DP World Tour playing privileges and a waning love for the game, Åkesson made a remarkable return to the Challenge Tour this year.
His stellar performance in 2023, where he topped the Nordic Golf League Order of Merit, set the stage for his comeback.
His maiden Challenge Tour victory at the NMB Championship in South Africa was a testament to his renewed form and confidence.
“My game is feeling really good at the moment, and I have done a lot of work on my putting,” Åkesson explained.
“I have started lining the ball up, which has made a big difference, and it’s good to see the ball dropping this year.”
As the Blot Open de Bretagne progresses, Englishman John Parry sits in fourth position at nine under par, while Frenchman Benjamin Hébert and Norway’s Kristoffer Reitan are a shot further back in fifth.
Norwegian Mats Ege, who showcased incredible resilience, will play the weekend in Brittany after carding the low round of the day—a ten under par 60, marking a 19-shot improvement from his nine over par opening round of 79.
The Blot Open de Bretagne promises more excitement as players navigate the challenges of Golf Bluegreen de Pléneuf Val André.
With Åkesson in commanding form, the weekend is set for thrilling competition and possibly more spectacular rounds.
