New Zealand golfer Ryan Fox shoots lowest-ever back nine at The Open

New Zealander Ryan Fox surged into contention in the 148th Open Championship at Royal Portrush after shooting the lowest back nine in the tournament's history.

What was more remarkable about his achievement was that he was three-over with seven holes to play but strung together six birdies down the stretch to propel himself into contention on day one.

The son of rugby's former All Black Grant - playing in his fourth Open - had missed the cut in his previous seven regular tour events.

"That's pretty cool. I did actually ask my caddie 'Has anyone shot 29 for nine holes in a major?' - I'm sure that's happened - and he just said 'Shut up and just hole the putts'," he said after signing for a three-under 68.

"To be honest I've been struggling lately and this is the first day it's felt pretty decent, ball striking-wise.

"I walked off the front nine pretty pissed off to be honest and then I holed an eight-footer for birdie on 12 and it relaxed me a little bit.

"It's the first time I've had fun on a golf course for a while and you don't expect to do that but it was nice to just enjoy being part of such a great event.

"I don't think I quite got in the zone - I know that sounds strange but I've only been in it once or twice before when it gets to a point where you just see it and hit it.

"But it certainly wasn't like that. I don't think this golf course lets you do that because you have to think about so many humps and hollows."