Drysdale gunning for tour exemption

David Drysdale hopes he can earn a “life-changing” victory at the Russian Open this weekend by securing a tour exemption.

Drysdale felt his hard work had paid off after shooting a career-low in Moscow yesterday.

The Scot came home in 29 to card a superb personal best round of 62 and take the lead in the Russian Open at Moscow Country Club.

Drysdale’s score of 10 under par put him one ahead of Spain’s Carlos Rodiles after the first round.

“I played really well last year and then in practice here on Tuesday and I managed to continue that,” Drysdale told www.europeantour.com.

“That’s the lowest score I have had on tour so it feels pretty good. I shot eight under at Le Golf National once and that was pretty special but this would be up there with the best rounds that I have ever had on tour.

“In fact, it’s probably the best I have ever had.”

Drysdale started with three birdies in his first four holes and went to the turn in 33. He then gained another seven shots over the closing nine holes, including an eagle at the 15th.

Drysdale finished third in Moscow last year and is hoping to go even better this time. With so many top names playing in the US PGA Championship this week, he recognises it as an excellent chance to earn a tour exemption.

“This week is a great opportunity for every guy in the field,” he said. “This is a great chance for someone to get a tour exemption for the next two and a half years. That could be life changing.

“I have been playing well all summer and putting myself in great positions. Hopefully this could be the week for me.”

South Africa’s James Kingston and another Spaniard, Francisco Valera, were still in contention after recording 65s while Sweden’s Fredrik Andersson-Hed, Alejandro Canizares of Spain and Frenchman Cidric Menut were all six under.