returning from Rhode Island University to share the first round lead in the Bermuda Amateur Strokeplay Championships yesterday.

In almost ideal conditions -- sunny with little wind -- the 20-year-old sophomore toured Port Royal in one-under par 70, a score matched only by Nick Mansell.

But while those two top the leaderboard with 54 holes still remaining, yesterday's story was really about the Island's ever-improving juniors who again put many of the senior players to shame.

Fifteen-year-old Jarryd Dillas and Aaron James, 14, shot 73 and 74 respectively to hold down third and fourth places while 16-year-old Ryan Mello, another product of the Bermuda Junior Golf Association, is just one stroke back on 75.

Mello shares fifth place with Scotsman Mark Dupuy, winner of this year's Bermuda Match Play Championships at Mid Ocean Club.

Another junior, Eric West, played himself into contention with a first round 78.

Bill Pitt, veteran Noel Van Putten and Andy Wrigley all posted 76s while Bermuda Golf Association's current Order of Merit leader Dave Purcell turned in 77 as did Port Royal boss Max Atherden.

More good weather is forecast for today when the men tee off in the second round and a field of 21 begin the 54-hole ladies championship in which Alisa Hardy defends her title. Both championships finish on Monday.

Aaron James: one of three juniors in the top six after yesterday's opening round of the Bermuda Amateur Strokeplay Championships. James fired a three-over par 74.