Dutch Open 2021 R1
September 16-19
Bernardus Golf, Cromvoirt, Netherlands
€1,000,000
Round 2, Round 3, Round 4

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Irishman Niall Kearney closed his round with three birdies in the final four holes to take the opening lead at Bernardus Golf. He produced a totak of seven birdies in a bogey-free round for a 65 taking a one shot lead.

Dutch Open 2021 R1

"I found it really enjoyable, it's got a real links feel to it. I play links golf at home, so I felt right at home, and I have been at home the past three weeks, so I feel rested somewhat and really enjoyed it.

"I had a chip in mid-way through the back nine, that was a big help and finished well, a couple under the last three holes so nice to finish that way and holed that one from 30 feet on 18."

Dutch Open 2021 R1

Kearney, who does not have full privileges on the European Tour, has recorded two top-10s this year, coming T4 at the Canary Islands Championship in May,carding a 61, and T8 at the Hero Open in August.

"This year has been positive for me. I have had a lot of good finishes and put myself in the right spaces and I have grown in confidence from it. I am starting to feel a bit more comfortable which is great."

Dutch Open 2021 R1

Germany's Maximilian Kieffer fired eight birdies and two bogeys to share second place with a bogey-free Martin Simonsen of Denmark at 6-under.

Dutch Open 2021 R1

"I played very well except for one hole," said Kieffer. "I wasn't really fighting for par and hit great shots all day, even on 18 when I made bogey, I made some putts, so everything worked well today.

"I like the course a lot. If you play bad shots you will get in trouble but if you hit good shots you get plenty of chances, and that is how a course should play. If the wind picks up it is definitely going to be a bit trickier but it is great, especially the back nine, it's nice for the eye as well."

Nine players are tied in fourth place at 5-under.

Dutch Open 2021 R1