FRENCH OPEN FIRST ROUND

27 June 2008 – The lead of the first round of the French Open was taken yesterday by Pablo Larrazabal, with a top closing score of six-under-par 65, being just one stroke ahead of Oliver Fisher and Peter Lawrie.

The winner of the 2007 US Open, Angel Cabrera, finished just two strokes back.

Stepping out of the shadow of his brother Alejandro, for whom he caddied at the US Master, Pablo is today chasing one of the largest first prizes of the season at this tournament.

“There is a lot at stake this week but I’m trying not to think about maybe qualifying for the British Open (next month) or anything else, just trying to stay patient”, Pablo said.

Fisher produced a flawless card.

Commenting on his defeat at Spain, “My near win in Spain was a great confidence boost”, Fisher said. “I played with Lee Westwood in the last two rounds and I outplayed him by a couple of shots and look what he can do”.

The French Open resumes play today.