Swede Henrik Nyström reached the turn in a four under par 32 at the Estoril Open de Portugal to open up an early one stroke lead.
The 41 year old, who has struggled with injuries over the last 18 months, birdied his first three holes at Penha Longa Golf Club.
He gave a shot back at the 434 yard fourth, but further gains at the two par fives on the front nine, the sixth and eighth, moved him one clear of English duo Andrew Marshall and Richard Bland, Dane Mark F Haastrup and South African Louis Moolman.
Tournament favourite Chris Wood was amongst a large group on two under during the early stages, along with Ryder Cup Dane Thomas Björn and Australian Richard Green.
Former Ryder Cup hero Darren Clarke and Spanish veteran Santiago Luna were among those teeing off later in the day.
