The Clara man is one under par.
Shane Lowry has carded a 1 under par first round of 71 at the DP World Tour Championship in the U-A-E.
The Clara man is tied for 16th alongside Tom McKibbin.
Rory McIlroy is two shots off the lead on 2-under par thru 9 holes.
The Holywood golfer is in prime position to claim the $2,000,000 first prize bonus for winning the Race to Dubai.
Only a win for Thriston Lawrence this week, coupled with McIlroy finishing 11th or lower, can prevent the Northern Irishman from taking home the Harry Vardon trophy.
The clubhouse lead is held by Paul Waring and Tyrell Hatton on 4 under par,
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