amateur scene in recent years but yet to win his first major title, took a big step in the right direction with a two-over par 73 to take the early lead in Bermuda Men's Amateur Strokeplay Championships at Port Royal yesterday.

Dupuy, beaten by fellow Englishman Tim Carr in the final of the Amateur Match Play Championships at Mid Ocean Club in March, took advantage of near-perfect conditions to grab a two-stroke lead over Gary Carr and 1993 champion Duncan Zelkin.

Three players, Arthur Jones and Tony Readwin, both former members of Bermuda teams at the World Amateur Championships, and young Quinton Sherlock jr. were a further two shots back on 77.

Others posting rounds in the 70s included youngsters Michael Sims (78), Chris Garland (79) and Andrew Trott (79).

However, several of those who were expected to challenge this weekend got off to a rocky start.

Tim Carr's hopes of completing a rare `amateur' double faltered with an opening round of 12-over-par 83.

Zane DeSilva managed only 85, veteran Noel Van Putten 86 and Port Royal manager Max Atherden a disappointing 88.

Today sees the second round while 15 women will tee off this morning in the first round of the 54-hole Ladies Amateur Championships with Madeline Joell, Juliana Jack, Alisa Hardy, Valerie Nearon and Lyndsey Sims expected to be among the contenders.

IN THE HUNT -- Young Quinton Sherlock jr. played himself into contention with a six-over-par 77 in the opening round of the Bermuda Amateur Strokeplay Championships at Port Royal yesterday.