Golf: Long best of NZers in Sydney

A opening round three-under par 69 has given New Zealand golfer Michael Long a strong start at the Australian Open in Sydney.

He is three shots back from leaders Stuart Appleby and Scott Hend in a tie for eighth.

Brenden Stuart is the next best New Zealander in tie for 28th after an even par round, while Josh Carmichael is at one-over.

Long says he has overcome a disappointing week of practice due to poor weather. He says it has been hard to practice, so the first day was a about getting a feel for the course.

- NEWSTALK ZB