Grace sets pace at Carnoustie

It may have been dubbed 'Car-nasty' in 1999, but Carnoustie appeared to be holding no fears for Dunhill Links pace-setter Branden Grace today.

Already five clear of the star-studded field after rounds of 60 at Kingsbarns and 67 at St Andrews, the South African quickly picked up two more birdies when he switched to the toughest of the three courses used for the £3million celebrity pro-am.

Seeking a remarkable fifth win of the season - three on the European Tour and one on his home circuit last Sunday - the 24-year-old was up to 19 under par.

Dane Thorbjorn Olesen remained five behind after an eagle on the 516-yard third at Kingsbarns, but then came a further two-stroke gap to Grace's compatriot Anton Haig.

Many of the biggest names were simply fighting to survive tonight's cut and twice winner Padraig Harrington's chances were greatly boosted when he went to the turn in a three-under 33 at St Andrews.

On three under par, however, the Dubliner was still outside the expected mark, while Open champion Ernie Els and Ryder Cup pair Martin Kaymer and Peter Hanson were alongside him.

Paul Lawrie was the other member of Jose Maria Olazabal's side competing, but with nine to play he was down in joint 100th spot on one under and only the top 60 and ties progress to tomorrow's final round at the Home of Golf.