Aberdonian Graeme McInnes looked in poor shape after just six holes of today's opening round of the Gleneagles Scottish Championship. But he's finished up leading with a third of the 132-strong field still to finish.
A four-under 69 was the improbable outcome for the 34-year-old Murcar Links pro as he cruised the inward nine with five birdies and no dropped shots.
"I was three over after six", said Graeme, "But I knew from one of the course marshals that scores were generally high in the gusty winds." His inward 32, five under par, was the best of the day so far.
After a few years in the competitive wilderness - "I lost my way a bit, getting far too involved with techniques instead of learning the strategies of the game" - Graeme gives much credit for his improvement to Craig Lee, who earlier had posted a 71.
"We're good friends but this is a commercial relationship. I see Craig either at his All Swing Golf Centre in Stirling, or he comes up to Murcar. We also meet at some of the tournaments."
Paul McKechnie, current leader of the region's Order of Merit and Money List, lies a shot behind McInnes, with Lee and David Orr (East Renfrewshire) tied third on 71.