Pleneuf Val Andre, June 26 -- Indian golfer Saptak Talwar continued his encouraging run on the Tour by opening with a two-under 70 at the Blot Play9, carrying the confidence from his strong performance in England into this week's event in France.

Talwar's steady start at Golf Bluegreen de Pleneuf Val Andre left him tied for 25th, five shots behind England's John Gough, who produced a flawless seven-under 63 to take the first-round lead, a release said.

Fresh from a confidence-boosting finish in England, Talwar once again showed his ability to make birdies in bunches. He picked up six birdies during his round, beginning with one on the third hole before adding another on the 10th. He gathered further momentum late in the day with birdies...