Bjorn leads from Faldo in Thailand

Thomas Bjorn and Nick Faldo begun their seasons in inspired form to head the field in the first round of the Johnnie Walker Classic on Thursday.

Bjorn finished one stroke off the Alpine Golf and Sports Club course record after an eight-under-par 64, the Dane firing an eagle and seven birdies in his first competitive round since finishing tied for third in last month's Hong Kong Open.

Six-times major champion Faldo, also playing for the first time since Hong Kong, equalled his best score in 12 months courtesy of eight birdies.

Briton Ian Poulter, Australians Jarrod Moseley and Scott Gardiner and American Edward Loar were next best on six under par, with Poulter fighting off the effects of a mystery back complaint to make a solid start.

Four players, including Thailand hopeful and former Asian number one Thongchai Jaidee, were locked in a share of seventh place on five under par. British Open champion Ben Curtis of the United States was among a large group on four under.

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