The first of five Betway Big Easy Tour Blue Label Invitational tournaments co-hosted with the Bushveld Tour got underway at Ruimsig Country Club on Monday, with Liam Ross racing to a one-stroke lead after an opening round of 67.
The five-event series is the first concrete collaboration between the two Tours and aims to provide more playing opportunities for members from both circuits.
The leading 44 players on the Bushveld Tour’s Order of Merit, alongside a strong Big Easy Tour contingent, are vying for the honours in this 54-hole second tournament of the season.
After England’s Harry Konig set the clubhouse lead at four under par, it was left up to the afternoon field to catch up and even best that score.
Oubaai Golf Club’s Ross was only happy to abide.
A birdie and an eagle on his front nine were accompanied by three untainted birdies on the homeward stretch, giving Ross a slender but satisfying lead heading into the second round.
“Me and [caddie] Sam had a good game plan coming here,” said Ross. “I’ve actually only ever played this course just once, so we thought, fairways, greens, and try to give ourselves opportunities for birdies. Thankfully, the ball came out nicely today, and I really gave myself a lot of birdie looks.
“As golf goes, however, I feel like I left a few out there, but I think that’s a normal round for anyone who plays the game. Nevertheless, I made some good putts out there and I really enjoyed it.”
Despite his solid showing on day one, Ross knows there is little to get excited about after the opening round, especially given the quality of the players who make up the chasing pack.
“You know, you never win a tournament on the first day, but you can definitely lose it,” Ross noted. “So, for me, just to be in contention after day one is something to be grateful for. The key is just to enjoy the process because the competition is really tough out here. I just have to take it as it comes and make the most of it.”
Just as Ross did, Konig also felt that he could have picked up a few more birdies en route to his opening 68. He ties the second spot on the leaderboard with Zwartkop Country Club’s Matthew Bennett. LB Boshoff, Sean Howell, Tristan Leonard and member of the Papwa Sewgolum Class, Lyle Pedro, share fourth after opening rounds of 69.
The Big Easy Tour is the Sunshine Tour’s feeder circuit and enjoys the support of the legendary Ernie Els among other patrons.
Photo: Big Easy Tour
