Dyson hits course record with Norman on his tail

Simon Dyson, of England, produced a smooth round of six under par, a course record, to take the lead after the first round of the BMW Asian Open here yesterday.

Australia's Greg Norman was joint second a shot behind Dyson, who hit a 66 at the 7,300-yard, par-72 course at the Tomson Pudong Golf Club.

Dyson, 26, who has been recovering from an elbow injury, said there was little he could have done better. He hit 11 birdies, including two on the last two holes.

"I started off really well, drove the ball great and got a couple under early on and putted really well and never missed a thing," Dyson said.

Norman, who at the age of 49 is one of the tournament's senior players, said: "Overall, I'm happy as it was a good solid day... I do think I can win the thing."

With Norman in second are Prayad Marksaeng, of Thailand, the American Greg Hanrahan and the South Korean KJ Choi - a twice winner on the PGA tour.

The Australian Craig Spense, who tied for the lead before falling back on the final holes, and David Drysdale, of Scotland, were among five players on four under.