Paul Lawrie again showed his liking for Celtic Manor, the 2002 champion taking a share of the early lead in the 2007 Wales Open on Thursday.
Lawrie carded a four-under 65 to tie on top with Australian Brett Rumford and Argentine Ricardo Gonzalez, a shot ahead of the field.
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Lawrie's 2002 victory, over the adjacent Wentwood Hills layout, which is being prepared for the 2010 Ryder Cup, was the Scot's last success.
A trip to play Carnoustie on Monday, where he achieved his dramatic playoff success in the British Open eight years ago following Jean Van de Velde's infamous 72nd hole collapse, put Lawrie in the right frame of mind to challenge for his sixth European Tour title.
"It had a good feel about it, playing Carnoustie," Lawrie told reporters. "Now I'm wishing it could happen soon so we can get on with it." The British Open starts at Carnoustie on July 19.
Rumford is looking for a third European Tour title and Gonzalez, who had to complete his round after a two-hour rain suspension, a fourth.
New Zealander Michael Campbell and local favourite Bradley Dredge of Wales are in the chasing pack a shot off the lead but tournament favourite and world number 10 Retief Goosen could only manage a 70.