Algarve Open de Portugal 2006

Defending champion Paul Broadhurst equaled the course record with an 8-under 64 on Thursday, taking a one shot lead in the first round of the Algarve Open.

Broadhurst had an eagle and seven birdies at the Le Meridien Penina course in southern Portugal to lead Swede Christian Nilsson.

Play was briefly interrupted when five parachutists accidentally landed on the course. One of the parachutists reportedly had trouble and opened a backup chute. The other four decided to follow, citing safety concerns.

"There was no real hold up," tournament official Paul Carrigill said. "The players had a look and got on with it. The parachutists were extremely apologetic."

Nilsson had 10 birdies and three bogeys in his 7-under 65. He had a one-stroke lead over Frenchman Christian Cevaer, who shot 6-under 66 with six birdies.

Robert Lee established the course record in 1987.

Broadhurst, starting his round at the 10th hole, shrugged off a bogey at the 13th. On his second nine he had a 30, which included the eagle.

"I holed some good putts, which is a nice feeling. I feel I can win this event again," Broadhurst said. "I have just set the target of playing under par for the next three days. If I can do that I will be pretty close."

Broadhurst took a few lessons last week from veteran Scottish teaching pro Bob Torrance.

Asked the secret of his 64, Broadhurst replied: "I just stood up and smashed the driver."