Fisher shows potential in pro debut

It must have been a proud but nerve-jangling day for Oliver Fisher as he began his journey as a professional golfer. The Alfred Dunhill Championship at Leopard Creek GC, South Africa is the venue for the 18-year-old Englishman?s first appearance since gaining his card at Tour School and a solid 1-under par 71 should ensure that he sleeps well tonight.

Throughout an eventful round he showed flashes of the brilliance we have seen throughout his superb amateur career, underlining why there is so much focus on the talented teenager.

A bogey at the straight forward first would not have calmed the nerves but birdies on the 2nd, 5th and 6th would have certainly helped. The teenager from Essex looked very much at home and although too many dropped shots prevented a great first round there was plenty to suggest that this is a star of the future. Fisher posses a golf swing that many a seasoned pro would love, it is smooth yet powerful and looks like it would stand up under pressure. His round of 71 included four birdies and three bogies which gives him a great opportunity to make his first professional cut and take home his first pay check.

Alessandro Tadini, Oliver Wilson, Phillip Archer, Wayne De Haas and Charl Schwartzel were early leaders on a tight leaderboard after rounds of 68, while Ernie Els disappointed home crowds with an up and down 72.

You will be able to read an exclusive Q&A with Ollie Fisher in next months Golf Monthly.