Professional Nick Russell has fired 6-under par 66 to claim victory by one shot in the Ramada Resort Kooralbyn Valley Pro-Am.

Thirty-year-old Russell got off to a flying start early this morning beginning his round with a chip at his opening hole.

“My short game was incredible today, I got up and down from everywhere," said Russell.

“I had one of my best putting rounds ever today with only 22 putts for the round, this definitely took the pressure off when I missed a green.

“Scoring was difficult with the cold weather this morning and the greens were quick you had to position yourself well."

Professionals Matthew Millar and Darren Beck both finished outright second after firing rounds of 5-under par 67.

“It is amazing to see the course in such fantastic condition given that just a few years ago the course was not in operation. The staff of the Ramada Resort Kooralbyn Valley Golf Club have done an amazing job," said Millar.

Professionals will now have a week off ahead of the Ladbrokes Pro-Am Series moving into the Brisbane swing of events starting at the Virginia Golf Club on Monday 6 August 2018