BARWON HEADS, Australia – Ryan Ruffels had seven birdies and two eagles in a course record-equaling 61 on Thursday, taking a two-shot lead at 11 under after the first round of the Vic Open at 13th Beach Golf Links on Thursday.
The Florida-based Ruffels has been playing on the Korn Ferry Tour and was making his first trip home to Australia since 2019.
He equaled the course record set in 2017 by Jake McLeod after shooting 11 under for the first time in a professional tournament.
Mathew Goggin eagled his final hole to finish at 63 and move into a tie for second at 9 under with Deyen Lawson.