David Lingmerth makes storming start to Open

David Lingmerth made an astounding start to the British Open at St Andrews on Thursday by birdieing the first four holes.

It was clear early on that the conditions were perfect for low-scoring out on the Old Course and the 27-year-old Flordia-based Swede, who won The Memorial this year, shot out of the blocks playing in the fourth group of the day.

There were birdies too for Dane Thomas Bjorn, who hit the tournament`s opening shot. He parred the first three holes before bagging birdies at 4, 5 and 6.

Irish amateur Paul Dunne joined in the birdie blast, also getting to three under after five holes.

The low scoring early on was good news for the likes of world number two Jordan Spieth and former number one Tiger Woods, both of whom had mid-morning tee-times.

The 21-year-old Spieth is seeking a third straight major win after taking the Masters and US Open in the space of two months.

The 39-year-old Woods is simply seeking a way back.

The top groupings in the afternoon, when conditions were forcast to worsen, see 2013 champion Phil Mickelson go out at 2:34 p.m. with top European Henrik Stenson of Sweden and fellow American Matt Kuchar.

Shortly after that, three-time winner Nick Faldo at 58 will tee it up one last time with top British hope Justinn Rose and last week`s Scottish Open champion Rickie Fowler.