West Waterford’s Gary Hurley fired eight birdies in a bogey-free opening effort to sit just one shot off the early lead on day one of the Alps Tour’s Gösser Open or ‘5th Major’ as it is sometimes referred to by members of the Tour.
Returning to competition after the Alps Tour went on a four-week break, perhaps Hurley was inspired by fellow West Waterford man Seamus Power as he produced a scintillating opening effort that included five birdies on the front nine and three on the back.
Having enjoyed two top-10’s already this season, Hurley’s game has been trending in the right direction in recent times after coming through a number of years of struggles and from his place of 39th on the Order of Merit, he’ll be hoping for a fast finish to the season to launch himself up the standings with just three events remaining before October’s Grand Final.
As for Ireland’s other competitors this week, Simon Bryan was in the clubhouse at even par after trading three birdies and three bogeys on Thursday. Darwin Escapes pro Carey finished at three-over with Rhys Clarke home and hosed at plus-five.
- Full scoring HERE / Full report to follow
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