Spain's Javier Colomo, ranked outside the world's top 500, upstaged Rory McIlroy and compatriot Miguel Angel Jimenez to grab the first-round lead at the UBS Hong Kong Open yesterday
The unheralded Colomo, languishing at 507th in the world, fired six birdies in a flawless six-under-par 64 to take a shock lead at the $2 million showpiece that is co-sanctioned by the European Tour and the Asian Tour.
His sizzling round was in stark contrast to that of McIlro’s. The defending champion endured a torrid day at an increasingly blustery Hong Kong Golf Club, carding a three-over-par 73 to leave him well off the pace.
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Rory McIlroy
The veteran Jimenez, 48, who is bidding to become the European Tour’s oldest winner, was tied in second with Australia’s Andrew Dodt, a shot behind Colomo. Jose Maria Olazabal was among five players in tied fourth after matching 66s.
“I probably just lacked a bit of energy out there. I felt a bit lethargic — mentally, more than physically, if I am being honest,” said McIlroy, 23.
“I started off OK and just got more and more frustrated as the round went on. I just felt like I was hitting some decent shots and just not really converting any chances for birdies and I just let it get to me a little bit,” he added.
The Northern Ireland star has enjoyed a hugely successful year, his third place at the Barclays Singapore Open last weekend meaning he has topped the money charts in the United States and Europe.
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