The first day of competition in the South Island age-group teams tournament at the Templeton course in Christchurch yesterday belonged to Canterbury, which is leading the under-19 and under-16 sections.
Led by New Zealand Amateur finalist Tom Parker with 68, the under-19 Cantabrians finished under par and have opened up an unassailable lead of 24 strokes ahead of second-placed Otago.
Parker was supported by Dominic Brettkelly (68), Ben Baker (71) and Hiroki Miya and Kazuma Kobori (both 72) for a sub-par team total.
Otago is well on track for second place 12 shots ahead of Southland and 19 shots ahead of Tasman, while Aorangi is a further five shots back in last place.
Otago No2 Callum Judkins was the standout performer with 70, supported by Jack Turner on 75 and Kyle Clark with 77.
The under-16 event is much closer; Otago is only one shot behind a young Canterbury quintet.
Team captain Hayden Robertson shot a regulation 72 and Parker Aluesi a 76, while Liam Judkins chimed in with 78.
The event continues today and tomorrow with individual as well as team honours up for grabs in the 54-hole event.
