Thursday 8 October 2015 19:33, UK
Marc Warren took the opportunity to impress Ryder Cup captain Darren Clarke as he claimed a share of the early first round lead at the British Masters supported by Sky Sports.
Warren fired a bogey-free round of 65 to enter the clubhouse with the outright lead, before later being joined by Russian Open winner Lee Slattery on six under par.
And the 34-year-old revealed he was using new equipment alongside playing partner Clarke, who Warren said had had a positive impact on his round.
"I like testing new equipment but unless it's absolutely right it doesn't go in the bag," Warren said. "I've used the same ball and irons for three years and the driver for a year, so this is rare for me.
"It was great to play with Darren [Clarke] because he has a great attitude on the course and will make you feel comfortable. He is looking forward to the EurAsia Cup in January and getting into that environment as captain and I think that's a great idea."
Another player enjoying a successful opening round at Woburn was former world No 1 Luke Donald, who carded five birdies on his way to a five-under-par 67.
Donald, who has not won on the European Tour since his second consecutive BMW PGA Championship victory at Wentworth in 2012, said he was pleased to see consistency returning to his game.
"There have been good signs for a couple of months," said Donald.
"I have not had a really good chance to win but the consistency seems to be coming back and I am starting to show some evidence of good wedge play and putting. I am happy with the way it's trending."
