had a creditable first round at the World Amateur Golf Championships at the Los Leones Golf Club in Santiago, Chile yesterday.

Overall Bermuda are placed near the middle of the 52 countries participating, finishing with an overall score of six-over-par 235 -- the best three balls of the foursome counting.

It wasn't such a good day for the other three local golfers who all struggled in the intense heat. Blake Marshall completed his round with a seven over-par 78 while Henry Ascento and Andrew Trott were much further back with scores of 81 and 87 respectively.

The United States, one of the favourites, are the leaders after the opening round with an impressive 209 with Finland offering a strong challenge, one stroke behind on 210. Great Britain and Ireland are tied on 213 for third place, with Sweden following on 214.

Michael Sims -- Good first round at World Amateurs