coped best with the blustery winds at Mid Ocean Club yesterday to take medal honours in the 72nd Bermuda Amateur Match Play Championships.

Lee, tipped earlier this week by defending champion Robert Vallis as one to watch in the week-long tournament, fired a one-over par 72 yesterday in difficult conditions which are only expected to worsen as the week progresses.

Vallis, who eliminated Lee last year, didn't need to play in yesterday's round as he earned his spot in today's championship flight automatically.

The same went for 17-year-old local Laura Robinson, who became one of the youngest ladies' championship winners last year.

In her absence, medal honours went to Janell Howland, one of just five visiting females. She carded 81.

Today's men's championship flight first round will see an interesting mix of both locals and visitors.

Much-heralded Gene Elliott, last year's Iowa State champion making his debut in Bermuda, earned his spot with a four-over par 75, bettered only by Lee and another American, David Braham (73).

Bermudian Blake Marshall, a strong contender, also returned 75 while local resident Paul Harkness carded 76.

St. George's club manager Max Atherden booked his spot in the championship flight with a 77 along with visitor Bill Cosgrove while last year's beaten finalist and former winner Tim Carr returned 78 as did Mid Ocean member Arthur Jones.

Another Mid Ocean member, Eddie Marshall, survived the opening day with a 79.

Several of the ladies struggled in the strong winds with Howland's 81 being one of only four scores in the 80s.

Joining her in the championship flight will be locals Sandy Hutchings (87), Valerie Nearon (88) and young Stephanie Lewis (89).

Full scores, see Scoreboard