G-MAC’S AN A* IN FRENCH

GRAEME MCDOWELL continued to enjoy himself back on European soil as he got his bid for a third HNA Open de France title off to a sparkling start at Le Golf National.

The Portrush man is a two-time winner of this event and an opening round of 68 in tough, windy conditions left him just one shot off the lead heading into day two at the course that will host September’s Ryder Cup.

Mcdowell has been named Thomas Bjorn’s (inset) Vice Captain for Europe at the biennial spectacular but has spoken of his desire to force his way into a playing spot.

The 2010 US Open champion is clearly feeling very much at home back in Europe and admits familiarity has played a part in his recent upturn in form.

“It’s always nice to come back to a place where you played well, good feelings, good visuals,” he said. “One of the important things of this golf course is something that Captain Bjorn, we have been talking about, it’s just a level of comfort that you have to have on this golf course because it is an intimidating track.

“Having come back to Europe and getting the Vice Captaincy and weight of the Ryder Cup being taken off my shoulders, I can come back here and free-wheel.

“This is kind of where I grew up and this is where I feel most comfortable and it’s nice to come back and enjoy playing good golf.”