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Swede smashes course record at Belfry

20/09/2007

Veteran Martin Erlandsson set a new course record of 63 to lead the British Masters at the Belfry.

The 33-year-old shot a sensational round of seven under par which included seven birdies and an eagle.

South African Richard Sterne and Jarmo Sandelin are two strokes behind on five-under.

Ian Poulter and Simon Khan are the best-placed British golfers on five-under after both carded 67s.

Lee Westwood lies on four-under while Northern Ireland's teenage debutant Rory McIlroy fired a bogey-free 69 to finish on three-under.

But Erlandsson stole the show after two birdies on the front nine to go out in 34.

On the back nine, the Swede fired five birdies and an eagle, taking just 29 more strokes to complete the course.

Erlandsson said he was thrilled with his swing.

"I've never shot a 29 before and it feels very special. I chipped in for an eagle on the third and that's what got me up and running," Erlandsson said.

"My caddie reminded me all the time to stay focused and stay where you are and do what you can do. It was brilliant. The last month or so I've really turned my season around.

"From the Scandinavian Masters onwards, I had a couple of good Sundays with the scores building up. Those are very nice.

"And my card is very secure, so I can play. It's a very different game to play when you know you're 76th on the Order of Merit and can only get better. That's a good feeling."