McIlroy off to flying start

Rory McIlroy got off to a flying start on the first day of Omega European Masters in Switzerland today, sitting three shots behind the lead on three under after just six holes.

The 20-year-old, joint third in the US PGA with Lee Westwood, is hoping for a win to go top of the European money list.

McIlory might have expected to birdie the par-five opener, but holing his approach to the 437-yard second for an eagle two was a real bonus.

Westwood, also among the late starters, birdied the first as well.

Graeme McDowell was around in 68, three below par, one better than playing partner Darren Clarke.

Shane Lowry had a less auspicious start, two over after 10 holes, while Paul McGinley was on par after six.

The clubhouse lead was shared by Spain's Miguel Angel Jimenez, Christian Nilsson of Sweden and Argentina's Andrea Romero on six under.