Oliver Fisher returned to form in stunning style as the opening round of the Johnnie Walker Championship at Gleneagles began in perfect scoring conditions.
Without a top ten finish on The European Tour since winning his maiden title in the Czech Republic two years ago, Fisher birdied six of his first ten holes at next year’s Ryder Cup venue.
A hat-trick of gains form the 16th was the highlight as the 24 year old grabbed a one shot lead on six under par.
Spain’s Ignacio Garrido - a member of the 1997 Ryder Cup side - and Fisher’s compatriot Tommy Fleetwood were next best on five under, with Michael Hoey, Bernd Wiesberger, Raphaël Jacquelin, Ricardo Santos and Fredrik Andersson Hed a shot further back.
Defending champion Paul Lawrie and Italian Ryder Cup star Francesco Molinari were among the afternoon starters.
Fisher was caught by Garrido when the Spaniard completed a six under 66, but responded with an approach to six feet at the fifth and holed the putt to lead once again on seven under.
