COLIN Maroney was the only professional to beat par as Castletown was buffeted by a near-gale force wind in the first round of the Manx Classic this morning.

With half the field still out on the course battling the elements, which became even more testing as rain swept in during the afternoon, it was looking increasingly likely that he will hang on to his lead at the end of the day.

The 32-year-old, who supplements his modest income from playing by teaching at Bury club Harwood at the weekends, posted a one-under 71 which included three birdies.

He admitted he did not possess a game plan other than "to go for the shots" irrespective of the conditions.

"I certainly did not play safe," he said. "I took a driver on every hole apart from the short ones yet did not find any serious trouble."

And he revealed it was his fourth successive sub-par round since having a lesson from Marriott Worsley Park professional David Screeton two weeks ago.

"He changed my posture and widened my backswing. I’ve transferred it to the course and it’s given my confidence a boost," he added.

Maroney was a shot ahead of former European Tour player Andrew Barnett, who learned the game at the exposed links of Royal St David’s where his dad John is pro; Astley Golf Centre’s Steve Parry, and Freddy Valenti, from Cheshire club Pryors Hayes.

Mount Murray head professional Allyn Laing was on 81 with Rowany’s Andrew Patterson two further back..