Drysdale's career best puts him on course for exemption

David Drysdale felt his hard work had paid off after shooting a career-low in Moscow yesterday. The Scotsman came home in 29 to card a superb personal best round of 62 and take the lead in the Russian Open at Moscow Country Club.

Drysdale's score of 10 under par put him one ahead of Spain's Carlos Rodiles after the first round.

"I played really well last year and then in practice here on Tuesday, and I managed to continue that today," he said.

"That's the lowest score I have had on tour so it feels pretty good. I shot eight under at Le Golf National once and that was pretty special but this would be up there with the best rounds that I have ever had on tour.

"In fact, it's probably the best I have ever had."

South Africa's James Kingston and Spain's Francisco Valera were still in contention after recording 65s, while Sweden's Fredrik Andersson-Hed, Spain's Alejandro Canizares and France's Cidric Menut were all at six under.

With so many top names at the US PGA Championship this week, Drysdale sees this as a good chance to earn a tour exemption.

"I have been playing well all summer and putting myself in great positions," he said. "Hopefully, this could be the week for me."