Michael McLean moved into third place of the PGA Senior Club Professional Championship at Northants County after an impressive opening round.
The Chesterfield Golf Club professional shot a respectable 71 in tough conditions to finish two strokes behind leader Donald Stirling, who is one under par.
McLean finished the front nine two over par, but a sizzling back nine - which included birdies at the 11th and 14th - brought him back into contention.
He said: "I putted very badly, which I think was because the greens were very slow. But my driving and iron play kept me going. I only missed two greens all round and kept the ball very straight.
"The strong winds made it very tough, although the course is in great condition."
McLean, who is one stroke behind second-placed John Hudson of Rivenhall Oaks, believes three rounds of level par will be enough to secure the title.
"When I arrived and saw the course I thought three rounds of 70 would be enough to win the tournament, and nothing I have experienced on the first day has changed my mind," he added.
West Midlands Golf Club professional Alan Roach is also in contention after he carded a two over par 72 to secure joint fourth spot, while Andrew Bownes of North Warwickshire and Wollaton Park's John Lower are a further two shots back.
Leader Stirling was delighted he continued his rich vein of form after winning the pro-am on Tuesday.
"I'm pleased with my score, my irons kept me going and I just took my chances when they arrived," said Stirling, who is the professional at Wien-Sussenbrunn in Austria.
"I've played in a couple of Champions Tour qualifiers in the USA recently to help regain some sharpness after a lay-off with my neck injury, and it looks like those rounds may have kick started my season."