Johnny Bart remains in contention for honours at the midway stage of the Canadian Junior Boys Championship at Wascana Country Club in Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada.

The Saltus Grammar School student shot even par in yesterday’s second round and at last check trailed leader Jack Guo, of Vancouver, by two shots with a bunch of players still out on the course.

Bart thrust himself in early contention with a three-under 69, which included four birdies, during the opening round on Tuesday.

“Very happy with my first round; my game was in control from start to finish,” he told The Royal Gazette.

“I had a nice stretch with three birdies in a row, holes 9 to 11, so I’m overall really happy with three-under.”

The 17-year-old golfer was also pleased with his even-par round yesterday which left him well inside of the cut.

“I’m pretty happy to be in red numbers after two days,” he said.

“Today’s round was a mixed bag, but I saved it with an eagle on my 18th hole.

“I’m super motivated this week to prove to myself I can compete in the biggest events against the best players.

“My preparation for this event was the best it has been in a while and therefore I felt really good about my game. I also had some extra motivation coming into the tournament, which I think helped me keep my focus.”

The youngster is keen to continue his steady form over the final two rounds.

“There’s a lot of golf left to be played, so I just want to stay focused and let my game speak for itself,” he said.

Bart has already enjoyed success on the international scene this year, having finished tied for second in an 18-hole Ontario Men’s Amateur Championship qualifier at Wildfire Golf Club in June.