Torrance challenges at Wales Open

NEWPORT, Wales, Aug. 8 (UPI) -- Richard Green and James Kingston shared the lead Thursday after the opening round of the Wales Open while European Ryder Cup captain Sam Torrance jumped into contention after almost missing his tee time.

Torrance, used his sprinting speed and hurdling technique to avoid a two-shot penalty before moving within a stroke of the lead.

Torrance had to make a frantic dash to the first tee at the Celtic Manor Resort after being altered by a European Tour official that he was in danger of being late for his starting time. Torrance went on to shoot a 6-under 66 to share third place with Bradley Dredge.

Green, from Australia, and South African Kingston established a new record for the Wentwood Hills course with their 65s.

Nearing his 49th birthday, Torrance did not display athletic form as he scurried to get to the first tee. But he offered his thanks to tournament secretary Jennie Janes, who informed him of his impending fate.

"I teed off at 1.30 in the pro-am and I guess I had that time in mind today when, in fact, it was 1:10," Torrance said. "I was just going over to the putting green to hit a few putts and Jennie came racing across the putting green screaming: 'you've got 40 seconds to get to the tee.'

"So I hurdled the fence surrounding the putting green and just kept going. I got there with about ten or 20 seconds to spare --- then played beautifully. My heart was thumping from the shock and I thought twice about jumping the fence. I thought I would either make the tee or break my leg."

With six birdies, including a 4-iron to within two inches for a birdie at the par-3 ninth, Torrance showed he is in better form than some of the players he will captain next month at the Ryder Cup.