Conor Purcell makes fast start in Challenge Tour Grand Final

Conor Purcell shot a bogey free opening round 67 to claim a share of eighth place on five-under par at the Challenge Tour Grand Final in Mallorca.

The Portmarnock golfer is already assured his DP World Tour playing rights next season as he up to fourth place in the Challenge Tour Order of Merit after his second win of the season in China 11 days ago.

Purcell could become the first Irish player since Raymond Burns in 1994 to head the end of season Challenge Tour rankings if he wins on Sunday.

Gary Hurley shot a first round of two-under par 70 and Dermot McElroy opened with a one-over par 73.

The leader on 10-under par, after an opening round of 62, is Spain's Ayora Angel.

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