CHAUTAUQUA, N.Y. — Co-Lin’s Dale Sykes shot a 6-over par 78 inTuesday’s opening round of the NJCAA Division III National GolfTournament to place him among the leaders in the 4-day event.Teammate Craig Smith shot an 86 yesterday on the 6,449 yard, par-72course.

Sykes, from Monticello, was even par after 13 holes. He shot atriple bogey on the 400-yard 14th hole.

“I really like the golf course,” said Sykes. “It’s got real softfairways. The rough is thick. I had one bad swing on the 14th.”

“I was able to par out coming in,” Sykes added. “The greens arefast.”

Co-Lin golf coach Justin Smith said Sykes played well. “It was abeautiful day and Dale had a real good round going. He was playingvery well until the 14th.”

Sykes stood 37th overall. Josh Bargfrede of Rochester (N.Y.)Community College shot an opening round 71 to lead the pack. Fourgolfers were 1 stroke back at even par 72.

“Craig will get it back together tomorrow,” said Sykes.