David Smith led by one stroke from former champion Robert Vallis after the first round of the men?s Bermuda Amateur Strokeplay Championships at Port Royal yesterday.

Smith fired an even par 71 on Bermuda?s premier public course where many in the 47-man field struggled with a succession of harsh pin positions which led to one player reportedly taking seven putts on one green.

Vallis, meanwhile, finished with a 72, one ahead of third-placed Dave Allison (73) while university student William Haddrell looked to be on course to finish tied for second before double bogeying the last to card a three-over par 74.

Amateur Matchplay champion Nick Mansell shot a 77 to finish tied for sixth.

This year?s tournament will see the crowning of a new champion ? with title holder Eric West having since turned professional ? while the event is also being used as a qualifier for the World Amateur Team Championships to be held later this year.

The ladies? championship begins today with defending champion Laura Robinson the favourite once again over 54 holes.