When the Madeira Island Open finally resumed after rainstorm delays this morning, it was the little-known Jesus-Maria Arruti who set the pace but the Spaniard was closely followed by Robert-Jan Derksen.
Arruti had eight birdies, with just two bogeys spoiling his card for an opening six-under 66 to lead by a shot from Derksen, who has become familiar with winning after claiming the Dubai Desert Classic a fortnight ago.
When the storms and the mist and fog, which followed, cleared from the high altitude Santo de Serra venue, the Irish contingent began by promising more than today's end product delivered.
In the end Kilkenny's Gary Murphy and Wexford's Damien McGrane lead the home challenge but were some six shots adrift after level par 72's.
Former Ryder Cup hero Philip Walton started with a birdie at the 11th, his second, and looked to be taking advantage of a sponsor's invite to the event. It was a false dawn, however, as the Dubliner failed to gain momentum and eventually signed for a two-over 74 with a double-bogey at the par five seventh his main undoing.
As yet Stephen Browne, the sixth Irish competitor, had not taken to the course and is unlikely to do so with darkness closing in.
It was the Madeira Island Open which veteran Des Smyth won in 2001 to become the oldest winner on the European Tour. This week another veteran, Seve Ballesteros, hopes he can ignite some form into his dilapidated game.
Yesterday the mercurial Spaniard wanted to speak only of positives as the 45-year-old attempts to rekindle former glories.
"I believe in what I can achieve and I believe in me. I am not interested in what in what people believe in me. I did say my motivation was low, but to pack up and go home is the easiest thing to do," said Ballesteros.
"All I have to do is prove to myself that I can compete, I have good vibrations and good desire."
Whatever his form, Ballesteros' desire and dedication have never been questioned but surely any thoughts of entering the winner's circle once again are premature.