Jonzon sets new record

MICHAEL JONZON, looking for all the world like a Viking warrior, tamed the Druids Glen course yesterday when the Swede, 6 ft 2 in and 13 st 6lb, left his mark, majestically, with a seven-under-par 64.

It was a score which equalled the 25-year-old's previous best as a professional, in the Lexington South African PGA two years ago, but merited recognition as "my best round ever, simply because this course is so tough."

An the fact that Jonzon. commenced his round with a bogey, on the 10th, brought a ringing endorsement from Lee Westwood, who had set the target the previous day. "Anyone who can overcome a bogey start, and still shoot 64, deserves it," said the Englishman.

"Since winning in Portugal in March, I haven't been too consistent. One good week here, one bad week there," said Jonzon. "However, my form has gradually come back and I'm playing better and better. This was one of those days where everything worked out "just fine."

Despite starting with a bogey five (on the 10th) - when missing the fairway, Jonzon strung together five successive birdies over the toughest stretch on the course. Yet, the longest putt he required on his golden streak was a 21-footer at the 15th which concluded that run.

Then, on what is the orthodox front nine, Jonzon secured further birdies at the second, third and fifth.