Ross McGowan dazzled onlookers with a masterful nine-under-par 61, seizing an early lead at the D+D Real Czech Challenge hosted by the majestic Royal Beroun Golf Club. This scintillating start places him a stroke ahead after the tournament’s first day.
This 42-year-old English golfer, a veteran with two DP World Tour victories under his belt, last tasted success at the 2020 Italian Open.
His performance in Beroun was nothing short of stellar, culminating in a flawless, bogey-free round accentuated by a string of four consecutive birdies to close.
“Solid golfโthat’s what today was about. I’ve been on form for the past few weeks, just waiting for it all to click,” McGowan remarked. His game was on point from tee to green: “Driving it better, iron shots landing close, and the putter felt just right.”
McGowan noted the greens held up remarkably well, especially considering his afternoon playtime.
“Hitting fairways is key here,” he advised. “The rough’s punishing if you stray too far. Keep it on the short grass, and you’re set up nicely.”
His day was lit up early with birdies on two of his first three holes, followed by another at the seventh.
After making the turn at three under, he added more birdies at the tenth and 12th, and his grand finish included birdies at the last four holes, propelling him into the lead.
“I really went for it with the driver up the 15th, landed about six feet from the hole. Even a slight misread didn’t stop the birdie,” he recounted.
The final stretch saw McGowan deftly handle challenging lies and cap off with a crucial up-and-down birdie from 25 yards on the last hole.
Looking forward to the next round, he remains focused: “The plan’s simpleโkeep landing them close and sinking putts.”
Meanwhile, McGowan leads over French golfer Maxence Giboudot, who is alone in second place at eight under.
Close behind, a cluster of seven golfers are tied for third, just two strokes off the pace.
As the tournament advances, with the second round set to start early tomorrow morning, all eyes will be on whether McGowan can maintain his lead and perhaps, clinch another victory to add to his distinguished career.
McGowan is scheduled to tee off at 8:05 AM, joined by South Africa’s Deon Germishuys and Slovakia’s Jakub Hrinda.
