Spaniard
Francisco Cea shot a seven-under-par 65 to take the lead after the first round
of the Sarazen World Open on Thursday.
The 27-year-old Cea, seeking his first success on the European tour, led by one
shot from Dane Thomas Bjorn and Englishmen Roger Winchester and Robert Coles.
Bjorn, who has been without
a victory since early 1998, came home in 31 to show his good form after a slow
period.
Currently 21st in
the Order of Merit, Bjorn neds to climb one place to make sure of competing in
the $5 million world golf championship at Valderrama next month.
Coles, 27, has endured a frustrating year after missing last November's qualifying
school finals because of a car crash in which he suffered broken ribs just days
before the event.
"I was
going to play a Challenge Tour event in France this week," Coles said. "I cancelled
my flights on Saturday when I heard I was in the field here. This score vindicates
my decision."
Winchester,
fresh after three weeks off, joined the group on 66 after an inward half containing
four birdies, an eagle and a bogey at the last which deprived him of the chance
to join Cea on seven under.
