TROWBRIDGE golfer Steve Surry shot an encouraging opening round in the Joburg Open in South Africa today

The Cumberwell Park ace, who celebrates his 32nd birthday next week, carded a 67 to lie three off the lead on the West Course at Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Golf Club.

Surry was tied 25th, three behind a leading group that included European Ryder Cup player Eduardo Molinari in the event, which co-sanctioned by the European Tour and Sunshine Tour.

Surry. who has playing rights on South Africa's tour for 2014, could earn a place in this year's Open Championship a Royal Liverpool in this week's tournament.

The top three players not already qualified for the July Major will clinch a place if they finish inside the top ten.

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