humidity to fire solid rounds in the Atlantic International Championships which got underway at Belmont yesterday.

American Chad Glanton carded an impressive one-under-par 69 to capture the early overall lead -- three shots ahead of locals Chris Garland and Robbie Spurling who each returned respectable two-over-par 72s.

Glanton completed the front nine at one-over par 35 and came home with a stylish two-under 34 on the back side.

Spurling leads the 15-17 age group by one shot over another local player, Patrick Graham, a 15 handicapper who eagled the tenth, holing his third shot from 50 yards out on the way to a career-best 73.

"This is the best round of my life, but I'm scared to see what happens tomorrow,'' said Graham afterwards.

In the 13-14 age group Bahamian Keno Turnquest is out in front by two shots, followed by Kyle Miller of Ohio.

The 12 and under age group is shaping up for a close battle after Aaron James and Oliver Pitcher both carded 81s to lead third-placed Colin Brown by six shots.

Twelve year-old Jameica Duncombe of the Bahamas leads the Open girls division by just one shot over Sarah Lindo after a first round of 91.

Play in the 72-hole event continues today at Mid Ocean.