17 Jul 2015

Johnson leads the way at British Open

9:10 am on 17 July 2015

The strapping American golfer Dustin Johnson, just pipped at last month's US Open, is a one shot leader after a 7-under par 65 on a chilly first day at the British Open at St Andrews in Scotland.

Dustin Johnson.

Dustin Johnson. Photo: Photosport

Averaging 322 yards off the tee, Johnson made the most of ideal conditions on the first morning to lead by one shot from a group of six players who include the veteran South African Retief Goosen, Scot Paul Lawrie, Australia's Jason Day and American Zach Johnson.

21 year old Jordan Spieth, the winner of the first two major championships this year, is handily placed, two shots from the lead in a tie for 8th place.

Tiger Woods will be struggling to make the cut after an opening round of 76, and with bad weather forecast for the next two rounds.

Aucklander Ryan Fox is borderline to make the cut after an even par 72, while Danny Lee's 73 has him tied for 97th.

Ryan Fox tees off at the British Open.

Ryan Fox is at even par after the opening round. Photo: Photosport