Associated Press
Thursday, July 27

NEWCASTLE, Northern Ireland -- Noel Ratcliffe shot a 4-under 67 to take a one-stroke lead Thursday after the first round of the Senior British Open.

Hubert Green and John Bland were tied for second, a shot ahead of defending champion Christy O'Connor on the 6,614-yard Royal County Down course.

Nobody had a better start than Green, who eagled the par-5 first hole, dropping an 8-foot putt after a fine 7-iron approach. Despite the quick start, he reached the turn in even-par 35, but had three birdies on the second nine.

Three-time Senior British Open winner Gary Player had a 76, and two-time champion Bob Charles shot a 75.

Two-time champion Brian Barnes withdrew after five holes citing rheumatoid arthritis in his wrists. The 55-year-old former Ryder Cup player said he was thinking of retiring.

"It's a shame," he said. "I still love playing golf, but it's no fun at all playing in pain like this."