Karlsson sets the pace

Robert Karlsson is on course for another wire-to-wire victory in the Omega European Masters in Switzerland.

Karlsson carded a first round 65, six under par, at Crans-sur-Sierre this morning for an early one-shot lead over 49-year-old duo Mark McNulty and Eduardo Romero.

That was the same score he started with 12 months ago on his way to a four-shot victory and fifth European Tour title, and a repeat on Sunday would go some way to make up for last week’s disappointing finish.

Karlsson led by two shots going into the final round of the BMW International Open in Munich but struggled to a closing 74 and share of eighth place as Lee Westwood claimed his first win in almost three years.

But the 6ft 5in Swede is benefiting from a more laid-back approach and is enjoying the relaxed atmosphere high up in the Swiss Alps.

“Even if you are two over par when you reach the seventh tee you get a big smile on your face,” said Karlsson, who was referring to the spectacular views but could also have been referring to the eagle two he secured by driving the green on the short par four and holing from 30 feet.

“This is my seventh tournament in a row, I’ve never done more than four before, and it has forced me to practice less and enjoy it more.

“I’d like to do that anyway because after 13 years you hope you can play the game decently.”

Between them McNulty and Romero have more than 40 years experience on the European Tour and are looking forward to the lucrative US Seniors Tour; McNulty reaches the qualifying age of 50 next month and Romero next July.

But they are both still competitive with the young guns and would become the oldest ever winner on tour, surpassing Des Smyth’s record of 48 years and 34 days, if they were to win the first prize.

The young guns may have something to say about that however, Sergio Garcia just one shot behind on four under after coming home in 32, playing partner Paul Casey another shot adrift after a 68 and Ernie Els two under par after his first two holes.

Colin Montgomerie had to settle for a one under par 70, the Scot not alone in struggling to get to grips with the tricky greens which were redesigned by Seve Ballesteros in 1999.

“You can’t complain because the course is under snow for most of the year,” said Casey, twice a winner on tour this season. “They are not perfect but combined with Seve’s redesign they are very very difficult.”