Bermuda Men's Amateur Seniors Championship when he fired a superb opening round of 70 at Riddell's Bay yesterday.

The American's even-par score left him six shots clear of compatriot Ed Tallach (76) with 36 holes remaining.

Defending champion Millard Beach, who dethroned MacKenzie last year, was one of three players on 77 -- tied with Bill Black and Howard DeSilva.

Brendan (Bees) Ingham, Richard Knight, Eldon Raynor, Quinton Sherlock and Michael Tavares were bunched together on 78.

The second round of the 54-hole tournament is scheduled this morning when Carol Hammond will begin the defence of her ladies' senior title.