Shannon Glenesk of Vernon shot a 5-under 67 in the TaylorMade and Adidas Golf PGA of BC Championship Monday at Fairview Mountain Golf Club in Oliver.
Glenesk was tied for third place with Clark MacPherson (McCleery, Vancouver) going into Tuesday’s final round.
The smoky air conditions did not seem to bother most players with Ben Griffin of Uplands (Victoria) taking the first-round lead at 65, with six other players following close behind, also shooting rounds in the 60s.
“It feels great, I played really well today,” said Griffin. “It was a little frustrating at first. I hit it really close on the first three to four holes, but couldn’t make a putt. Then I rolled in a 50-footer for eagle on the par 5 fifth.”
Griffin went bogey-free, following his eagle with a birdie on No. 8, then making four more birdies on the back. Prior to Monday’s round, Griffin had only played Fairview Mountain once – yesterday.
“I really like this course, it sets up really well for my eye. I have a new putter in the bag, so I can thank our head pro (at Uplands), Ian Stone, for letting me use his putter this week.”
Two-time winner Bryn Parry of Seymour Creek (North Vancouver) sat one back of Griffin at 66. A total of 26 players posted a score of even-par or better.
Myles Johnson of Spallumcheen carded a 75, while Justin Baillargeon of Vernon produced a 79 and Jesse Crowe of Salmon Arm had an 82.
