BMW International Open 2019: Kaymer off to a flying start.

• Martin Kaymer shoots a bogey-free opening round of 67 to lie tied for second.
• 15,500 spectators on “Bavarian Day”.
• Fitting start to the tournament, with oompah band, traditional dress and world-class golf.

Munich. The BMW International Open kicked off with impressive performances on the course and Bavarian flair around the tournament site. The 15,500 spectators who flocked to Golfclub München Eichenried particularly enjoyed a dazzling opening round of 67 (-5) from Germany’s top golfer, Martin Kaymer, who played his way into an excellent position going into round two.

 It is eleven years since Kaymer triumphed in Munich to become the first, and to this day only, German to win the BMW International Open. On Thursday, the two-time major winner remained bogey-free to set himself up nicely for an assault on title number two at Germany’s most iconic tournament. The 34-year-old underlined the impressive form he has shown recently with a controlled and virtually flawless performance.

 “It was great fun with the crowds. There were a lot of people out there, even in the morning – and a lot of kids, which is good to see. I made very few mistakes and putted well. Unfortunately, I did not put myself in good positions on the third, fourth and fifth, which are actually birdie holes. I could have picked up another shot or two there. There is still room for improvement, but I am very happy,” said Kaymer. “Compliments to Golfclub München Eichenried, the greens are perfect – the kind of greens a tournament like the BMW International Open deserves.”

When the afternoon rounds were suspended due to a thunderstorm warning, Kaymer was tied for second place with England’s Oliver Wilson, one shot off the lead, which was held by Italian Andrea Pavan (66, -6).

Defending champion Matt Wallace (ENG, -3), Sergio García (ESP, +1) and Marcel Siem (GER, +1) were also among the players who were able to finish their rounds in the morning.

Many of the 15,500 spectators – the most ever recorded on a Thursday in the 31-year history of the tournament – had come dressed in Lederhosen or Dirndls. “Bavarian Day” served up a feast of Bavarian hospitality, including traditional oompah music and snacks in the tournament’s own beer garden, as well as world-class golf.