Golf: Smyth eyes retention of title

Defending champion Des Smyth made sure he was in contention to retain his title at the first round of the Madeira Island Open today.

Smyth, who became the oldest winner in European Tour history when he captured his eighth title at Santo da Serra, carded a 69 to occupy second spot.

The veteran Irishman, who was in his 28th consecutive season and aged 48 years and 34 days when he won here 12 months ago, fired six birdies and three bogeys to occupy second slot - three shots behind Frenchman Olivier David.