Robertson Shoots Course-Record 62

Thursday, January 18th 2001, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa (AP) â€” Scotland's Dean Robertson shot a course record 10-under 62 Thursday and took the first-round lead in the Alfred Dunhill Golf Championship at the Royal Houghton Golf Club.

Robertson broke the record of 63 set by South Africa's David Frost in 1997.

On a course which was firm and allowed the players to drive the ball long, Robertson's short game was the key to his success, as he holed a string of putts from 15 to 20 feet. It was the best score of his career, bettering the 63 he shot in Switzerland last year.

England's Nick Faldo, seeking a spot on the European Ryder Cup team, started with a 68.

Faldo's countryman, Paul Eales, had an eagle 3 at the 16th and was in second at 65. Seven players were tied for third at 66: Ashley Roestoff of South Africa, Mathias Gronberg of Sweden, Stephen Gallacher of Scotland and Greg Owen, Justin Rose, Steve Webster and Paul Boadhurst of England.

Defending champion Anthony Wall of England shot a 69.