When Andy Sullivan’s coach told him to go out and get some birdies, this was probably not what he had in mind.

South African Nic Henning shot a course-equalling record 62 over Royal Johannesburg & Kensington’s West Course in the opening round of the Joburg Open. He went out in 29, with five birdies and eagle.

But his back nine consisted of seven pars and birdies at 15 and 26, to equal Desvonde Botes’ nine under par course record.

“Over the last few years my scores have been really terrible and it’s nice to have a good round under the belt to prove to myself that I can still play well,” said Henning afterwards.

Titch Moore’s opening round 63 included six birdies and a hole-in-one at the 108-yard 5th on the West course. It was the 17th ace on the European Tour this season.

Sihwan Kim checks that he will have enough room to swing his club normally to play his second shot on the first hole during the second round of the Joburg Open.

Alex Noren shot the lowest round of the second day, with a 63. This was his sixth round this season without a dropped shot, which is more than anyone else has achived thus far this season.. His camouflage outfit needs a bit more working out however.

The 36-hole and 54-hole leader was Wallie Coetsee. But he was not able to hold on to the lead, as a final round of 71 saw him finish in a five-way tie for runners up spot. It is 16 years since he had finished in the top ten at a European Tour event. The last time was the South African Open of 1999.

Instead it was Golf Monthly columnist Andy Sullivan who won the Joburg Open by two shots after a final-round 66. Sullivan had claimed his maiden title at the South African Open at Glendower in January, just a few miles from Royal Johannesburg & Kensington Golf Club. Sullivan, David Howell and Anthony Wall now qualify for The Open at St Andrews because of their performances in the Joburg Open.