New driver powers Clarke to share of lead

DARREN CLARKE blazed a trail to the top of the Dimension Data Pro-Am with an opening-day 63.

He used his new driver to devastating effect as he smashed drives of over 300 metres for a round of eight birdies, an eagle and a bogey at the Lost City Golf Club, which is sharing the first two rounds with the Gary Player Country Club.

Playing in a field which also includes Justin Rose and Nick Price, Clarke started his round at the 10th hole and began with a bogey, but recovered to come home in 34.