COLIN Montgomerie flew out of the blocks at the Open, storming to a first round 6 under 65, raising hopes that he is on the road to clinching his first major.

Huge crowds flocked to the 130th Open at Royal Lytham and St Annes for the first days play today (Thursday July 19).

Many went to see Tiger Woods of course but the sensational American could only produce a par round of 71, which by his very own high standards was a dissapointment. However, many would have been happy with that score in the blustery conditions.

By mid-afternoon Montgomerie still held a 3-shot lead, from American Brad Faxon who shot a 68.

Other clubhouse leaders were: Fulke, Olazabal, Rose, Andrade, Duval, and McGinley, all in with 69.

Little known Frenchman Alexandre Balicki was also on course for an under par round in his first ever British Open Championship. He was two under with two to play.

But the day so far belonged to Montgomerie, who said during his press conference after his round: "I was good today -- very good. I felt the crowd were very supportive.

"I putted well today and whenever I putt well I have a chance."

The Scotsman said he lost concentration though on the 14th when one of his playing partners Fred Couples encountered difficulties in a bunker: "I think I lost concentration and three putted," admitted Montgomerie.

He said the psyche of the Championship had changed for him now, but added: "I don't even want to talk about the weekend at this stage. At least I'm in contention here. I do like the course and just starting out tomorrow as if nothing had happened."