Ross Fisher was reminded of the day he set the course record at The Old Course, St Andrews as his love affair with the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship continued with a flawless opening round of 65.
Fisher was the first player to tee off at St Andrews at 0900 on Thursday and reeled off four consecutive birdies early on before adding three more to reach seven under par.
Each of his back-nine birdies came from more than 25 feet at the 13th and 15th as the Englishman once again impressed on a happy hunting ground for him.
Fisher has recorded three runners-up finishes at this event and set the course record of 61 on The Old Course in 2017. He now holds a share of the record with Romain Langasque and Tyrrell Hatton.
Speaking about his brilliant birdie run from the second hole to the fifth, Fisher said: "It's always good to get a nice little stretch.
"It actually reminded me a little bit of when I shot the course record a few years back. I think then I birdied the second, third, fourth and missed about an eight-footer for eagle on the fifth.
"So yeah, the thoughts were coming back but it wasn't quite as good as that day but I'll definitely take it."
Fisher went into the tournament 174th on the Race to Dubai Rankings but he is not thinking any further ahead than this week.
He added: "I'm just thinking about this tournament. I have a good history with this place and I love this tournament.
"I want to go out and play as good as I can and get a decent finish and have a chance on Sunday.
"I just really enjoy the event. I almost feel like because you're, I'll say, looking after your partner, I kind of don't really pay too much attention in what I'm doing. I want to see my playing partner who is paired with me have a good week.
"I feel like it relaxes you. You can chat a lot of the day. And then before you know it, you sign your scorecard at the end of the day and think, 'I shot seven under, nice'. Knew I was playing well but wasn't playing close attention to it.
"It kind of takes your mind off your own game if you are looking after your partner. I always enjoy this week. It's one of my favourite weeks on the calendar."
