Stand-in Toms leads Grand Slam of Golf

Late stand-in David Toms leads the first round of the 36-hole, four-man Grand Slam of Golf in Bermuda.

The American, who is only playing due to Open champion Louis Oosthuizen being injured, fired a first round four-under 67 with birdies on the two opening holes to get him off to a tremendous start.

Ernie Els, replacing Masters champion Phil Mickelson, carded a 68. US Open champion Graeme McDowell finished strongly to return 72 whilst USPGA winner Martin Kaymer posted a disappointing 74.

The two-day tournament is supposed to be competed between the four Major winners of the season but Mickelson and Oosthuizen had to drop out because of injury.

Toms, 43, has suffered major set-backs in recent years due to injury but was delighted with his first round performance at the Port Royal Golf Course, Southampton.

"It was a great first 10 holes," he said. "Even though it's a fun event, kind of an exhibition-style event, you want to go out and play great. Getting off to a good start was nice."

Els, who won the event in 1997, experimented with a new putting style but was happy with his opening round.

"I'm

in a good position," the former world number one said. "Hopefully I can

play a little better tomorrow. Feels like, especially the front nine I

left a lot of shots out there."