Henrik Stenson leads after record round - Abu Dhabi Golf Championship

Sweden's Henrik Stenson broke the course record when he fired a 10-under-par 62 to claim a one-stroke lead after the third round of the inaugural Abu Dhabi Golf Championship on Saturday.

On a calm, sunny day, five players eclipsed the two-day old course record of 66 and it was the Dubai-based Stenson who benefited most as he finished with a 16-under tally of 200, one ahead of American Chris DiMarco (63).

Spain's Miguel Angel Jimenez (64) was a further shot adrift on 202, with Argentina's Ricardo Gonzalez (67) and overnight leader Charl Schwartzel (68) of South Africa tied for fourth on 203 at the Abu Dhabi Golf Club.

Spain's Sergio Garcia moved into contention with a 65 for 204, one stroke better than Briton Colin Montgomerie (65). World number two Vijay Singh returned a 69 to take eighth place on 207.

Stenson, who complained of a stomach bug, set the tone for his sizzling round by reeling off five birdies in a row at the start.

He kept the momentum going with two eagle threes at the long 10th and 18th. The only blemish on Stenson's round was a bogey five at the ninth.

"It has been a bit of a funny week for me," the 29-year-old told reporters. "I pulled my back on Sunday and then between Thursday and Friday I had a bit of a stomach bug.

"I wasn't feeling well yesterday and it was a struggle. To shoot this score, maybe I should keep this bug."

The first of Stenson's eagles came when he knocked a three-iron to three feet at the 10th. A four-iron to three feet resulted in his second eagle eight holes later.

DiMarco, making his first appearance in a European Tour event outside the majors and world golf championships, produced his own fireworks on the back nine, going eight-under through seven holes highlighted by another eagle at the 10th.

"I am excited with what I shot today after a double bogey on the first," said the 37-year-old American.

World number six Garcia was equally pleased with his efforts.

"I played very solid and hit so many good iron shots," said the Spaniard.

"I was going nicely and it could have been an unbelievable round but unfortunately some putts didn't drop. It was a great day and you had to score well in these conditions."