Pinto races out of the blocks

Challenge Tour graduate Jordi Garcia Pinto was swiftly adjusting to life on The European Tour as he moved into an early lead at the South African Open Championship hosted by the City of Ekurhuleni.

The Spaniard, who finished seventh on last season’s Challenge Tour to earn a rookie season at this level, turned in a three under par 33 at Glendower Golf Club, then picked up further birdies at the 11th and 13th.

That put the 24 year old one stroke ahead of Branden Grace, who was looking to add his national Open to the Alfred Dunhill Championship he won in such convincing style prior to the Christmas break.

Five-time European Tour winner Grace – part of a strong home contingent that also includes Major Champions Ernie Els and Charl Schwartzel – started on the back nine and birdied four out of seven holes from the 14th.

Els, compatriot Chris Swanepoel, and England’s Tom Murray were all a shot further back on three under, but defending champion Morten Ørum Madsen was one over through 12.

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