the final two rounds of the Jamaican Open yesterday with a splendid score of a one-over-par 73 yesterday at the Wyndham Rose Hall Resort and Golf Club in Montego Bay.

This followed an opening round of 78 on Wednesday on a course described by Swan as one of the toughest he has ever encountered.

"The rough is exceptionally high ... much like that at the British Open where if you miss the fairway you're in serious trouble,'' said Swan last night.

"All the scores are high with the lowest being around 140 or four under.'' American Jim Thorpe, a member of the PGA tour, led after the first round on Wednesday, shooting a 69, but ballooned to 78 yesterday and at Press time the current leader was unknown.

Swan fired a two-over 38 on the first nine holes yesterday -- front nine -- and improved to 35 following the turn.

The Bermudian's accuracy with his drives carried him and offset his woes with regard to putting.

"My putter hasn't gotten hot yet, but if I can maintain through the next two rounds I could be in contention,'' concluded Swan.

KIM SWAN -- 11 shots off the pace.