Kirk Hanefeld and Brian Morris shot four-under-par 66s to take an early lead in the Gosling’s Invitational yesterday.

With Patrick H Horgan III, the defending champion, unable to return to defend his trophy, Hanefeld and Morris took advantage of the calm conditions to open up a one-shot lead.

Brian McCann, Danny Mijovic, and Marcello Santi all carded three-under 67s on a day when Bermuda’s professionals largely struggled.

Only Scott Roy, the Riddell’s Bay head professional, managed to come in under par, with a one-under 69. Terence Daniels and Dwayne Pearman shot level-par 70s, with the likes of Michael Sims, Daniel Augustus, and Camiko Smith all finishing over par for the first round.

Among the amateurs, Mike Hubbs, of Canada, shot a three-over 73 on his first visit to the Island, with Hav Trott and Mark Phillips close behind with a pair of 74s.