The big-hitting Belgian Nicholas Colsaerts blazed his way to a course record 9-under 64 and a four shot lead after the first round of the Volvo Champions at the Links at Fancourt.
Colsaert's golf was as hot as the weather as he registered ten birdies and a lone bogey at the short par four 6thhole to separate himself from the field.
The Volvo China open winner of last year had a rare four 2's on his card as he birdied all the par 3's to separate him from the exclusive winner's-only field of 35 players.
Next best were local hero Branden Grace of Knysna who shot a 5-under 68 playing alongside Spanish legend Jose Maria Olazabal who carded a 2-under 71.
Thomas Aiken and the young Englishman Tom Lewis also shot 68. Louis Oosthuizen and Padraig Harrington were part of a large group on 4-under 69 in tournament carrying a prize fund of 2-million euro.
The winner takes home 350 000 euro and the 35th and last placed golfer still walks away with 22 000 euro. There is no half way cut.
Of the other big names, Colin Montgomerie shot a 3-under 70. Hennie Otto, Garth Mulroy and Ernie Els all shot 2-under 71 with the Big Easy getting to the number by making birdie on this last three holes.
Retief Goosen shot 1-under 72 and surprisingly, Masters Champion Charl Schwartzel was the worst of the South African's with a roller coaster round of 2-over 75.
Friday's second round will see the professionals paired with amateurs who have qualified to be here from around the world and will be contesting Volvo's Amateur World Finals.
Tickets for Friday at the gate or through computicket.
