Gabe Schmitz conquered strong gales to seize early control of the Butterfield Bermuda Championship at Port Royal Golf Course on Friday.

The American carded an impressive even-par 71 in the challenging conditions to carve out a two-shot advantage over the rest of the field.

Schmitz was a model of consistency as he parred every hole on the front nine before offsetting two bogeys with as many birdies on the stroll coming in.

South African Noah Peens and American Phillips Swift are tied for second, two shots behind the leader at two-over.

Representing Bermuda in the boys’ field are Arman Newton and Johnny Bart.

Newton shot 78 to grab a share of 16th, while compatriot Bart entered the clubhouse tied for 37th among the 45-strong boys’ division after carding an 83.

Reflecting on his round, Newton told The Royal Gazette: “Started on hole ten and had a solid front nine. Played well on the back other than one hole, which caused some trouble. Happy to play tomorrow and see what I can shoot.”

Kayla Black was also a model of consistency in the adverse conditions as she parred every hole on the way to an impressive even round to take a three-shot lead over the rest of the field in the girls’ division.

Juliana Hong sits in second, with fellow American Rebekah Im a further shot adrift in third.

Darina Betschart is the island’s sole competitor in the girls’ division, where she is presently 19th among the field of 20.

The 54-hole American Junior Golf Association-sanctioned event concludes on Sunday.