Lee gets clubs back to fire 68

REUNITED with his clubs after they were lost in transit, Craig Lee got his 2012 campaign off to an encouraging start with a five-under-par 68 in the opening round of the Africa Open in East London.

It earned the 34-year-old, who signed for seven birdies, a share of 13th spot, four shots behind pacesetter Thomas Aiken.

“I’m delighted my clubs turned up,” said Lee, who earned his place back on the European Tour after finishing 14th on last year’s Challenge Tour. “They didn’t make the flight out of Heathrow, then missed two flights in Joburg before eventually turning up on Tuesday night.”

He added: “I didn’t play great on my front nine, but rolled in a few putts, then played steady on my back nine. I’m happy with the start and looking forward to the rest of the week.”

Alastair Forsyth is also lying handily placed after a 69, one less than Steven O’Hara – fourth in this event last year – and Alan McLean.