Sullivan, who enjoys playing golf in South Africa, delivered a flawless round of eight-under-par 64, securing a one-stroke lead. The Englishman, who has won two titles in South Africa, made eight birdies and didn’t drop a single shot during his strong opening round. 

A stroke behind, 21-year-old Casey Jarvis of South Africa, along with Alex Fitzpatrick of England and Marcus Kinhult of Sweden, all finished on seven-under-par 65, sharing second place.

Casey Jarvis. Photo: Sunshine Tour

After his round, Sullivan, nicknamed ‘the spaceman’, revealed that the key to conquering one of South Africa’s most beautiful and challenging courses is to get off to a strong start and make it count.

“It’s so important to get off to a good start at Leopard Creek because you know it’s only going to get tougher,” said Sullivan. “It generally doesn’t get easier here, so starting strong is important.

“It gives you a bit of a cushion because you know it’s going to be a grind over the next few days.”

“I always feel comfortable here and tend to play well. My putting was really good today, and it saved me a couple of times. I feel like the greens suit me, so I just need to keep my long game going.

“I’ve been able to put in a lot more practice time this week, and my swing feels good, so it was nice to get out there and see it all come together.”

Jarvis, the South African youngster, said that after a tough start, he had to motivate himself but was pleased with his performance.

‘When I come here, I try to play the way I did back then, and it worked out’

“I got off to a rough start, then told myself, ‘C’mon, let’s do this,’ and played great from there,” said the 21-year-old. “I had three twos at holes five, six, and seven, which is a first for me.

“I absolutely love this place. The golf course suits my game, and I’ve had a lot of success here as an amateur. So when I come here, I try to play the way I did back then, and it worked out.”

Dean Burmester. Photo: Sunshine Tour

The former champion Brandon Stone ended the first day just three strokes behind the leader. Defending champion Louis Oosthuizen posted a one-under-par 71, despite a challenging eight on the par-five 18th hole.

Four-time winner Charl Schwartzel also shot a 71, while Dean Burmester began his campaign with a three-under-par 69.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh