Keith Nolan made a steady start to his campaign of trying to ensure playing rights on the US PGA Tour next season by opening with a level par 72 in the first round of the final stage of qualifying school.

The Bray native, who resides in America with his wife and three kids, finds himself in a tie for 24th spot in California. After six rounds the top 30 players plus ties will gain their tour card.

Nolan's round included two bogeys and two birdies which leaves him five shots back from the clubhouse leader Scott Gutschewski.