Calcavecchia enjoys battle with elements

The 50-year-old followed where veterans Greg Norman and Tom Watson had gone before in 2008 and 2009 by showing that age is not necessarily a barrier to success in this major.

Beginning the day at two under the American was bogey-free as he carded two birdies on the front nine and three coming home. His opening two rounds of 70 and 67 were almost identical to the Open at Turnberry last year (67-69) where he eventually finished 27th.

However, the winner of the Claret Jug at Troon in 1989 is remaining realistic.

"It's a good spot to be. I didn't really think about where I was going to be in the tournament," said Calcavecchia, who was first to drive off at 6.30am.

"I'm just happy to have a tee time (today)."

Calcavecchia added: "My wife Brenda (who is also his caddy) and I got up at 4.30am and ran to the window, opening the curtains like little kids at Christmas.

"I didn't like what I saw as the rain was hitting the window sidewards and it was blowing.

"But it's enjoyable for us to come out and battle the elements together.

"I hope it's not like this all the way through next week's British Seniors at Carnoustie."