Michael Hoey shot a course record 64 to claim the clubhouse lead during the first round of the True Thailand Classic presented by Black Mountain.
The Northern Irishman fired eight birdies at Black Mountain Golf Club to hold a two shot lead over India’s Shiv Kapur.
The five-time European Tour winner, who was part of Great Britain & Ireland’s 2001 winning Walker Cup side, did not drop a shot all day as he moved into a commanding position.
“We had ten or 11 holes with not much wind, which was an advantage teeing off early,” said Hoey.
“I hit the ball well, and it suits me that there’s a bit of length off the tee; you can carry a few corners and reach the par fives.
“No bogeys, no fives on the card, and a course record is a nice start. I’m swinging the club nicely so hopefully I’ll put three more good rounds together and see what happens.”
Kapur made five of his six birdies before the turn as a round of 66 left him one clear of English rookie Matt Ford, Australian Scott Hend, Swede Alex Noren and Thailand’s Pariya Junhasavasdikul.
Tournament ambassador Thongchai Jaidee and Ryder Cup star Thomas Bjørn both made solid starts with rounds of 69.
But it was his fellow Spaniard Carlos Pigem who was making the most significant move, carding four birdies and an eagle at the long 18th to be six under through 12 and alongside Kapur.
