PARAMUS, N.J.-Twenty-five golfers advanced Monday and will compete in Tuesday’s final round of the 76^th MGA Senior Amateur Championship at Arcola Country Club in Paramus, NJ.  Powers McLean of Jumping Brook GC, and Stephen Rose of Fresh Meadow CC, led a strong field of golfers after each fired an opening round even-par 72. They lead Jeff Johns of Hackensack CC, Bob Howe of Winged Foot CC, and Shawn McLoughlin of Ridgewood (CT) by two strokes heading into Tuesday’s final round.

The day was highlighted by two holes-in-one, the first from Robert Stuart of National GC who faded a 5-iron into the cup on the 186-yard, 2nd hole, the second from Rick Schmidt of Hamlet/Windwatch, who hit a 4-iron 186 yards for his ace on the 7th hole.  It was the first time in the tournament’s history that two aces were recorded in the opening round.

Monday’s 25 qualifiers represent the top 20 + ties, from a total field of 200, who survived the cut of 78 or better on a chilly May afternoon. Qualifiers advance to the final 18 holes to determine the 2003 Senior Amateur Champion.  Also Tuesday, individual awards will be given in four age brackets.

For more information contact Ryan McKenna or Gene Westmoreland of the MGA at (914) 347-GOLF or visit the MGA website @ www.mgagolf.org.