Shadbolt and Gabella neck and neck

England’s Tom Shadbolt and Switzerland’s Arthur Gabella tamed in a brilliant way the course after scoring 63, -8 during Open Colli Berici opening round. The duo has a two stroke advantage over the English Tunisian Open winner Josh Loughry, his fellow countryman Liam Harper and Spain’s Gerard Piris.

England’s Tom Shadbolt (c) Tristan Jones

Nice weather helped the field to hole a huge number of birdies, 463 to be precised and 12 eagles. The short and tricky course build on top of hills near Vicenza is a real test of golf for those who feel comfortable with their irons. Big hitter could be frustrated not to use their skills but wedge magicians really enjoyed the challenge.

Gabella signed for flawless 63 thanks to 24 putts and Shadbolt only dropped one shot on the 5^th as he missed the green and had 2 putts.

Loughrey and Harper both scored -6. They shared the Tunisian Open last round two weeks back and it was Josh’s day. His compatriot had finished 2^nd tie and the Open Colli Berici might be his.

“Felt great to open up with 65, -6, couldn’t be happier” said the latter.

Tim Gornik from Slovenia, winner of the Alps Tour Q School last December, shot 66, nice card without mistakes and Switzerland’s Marc Dobias recorded same score to share the 6^th place. The projected cut is level par.