BURLINGTON, Vt.- David Bennett of Country Club of Vermont shot a 1-under par 70 to take a 4-shot lead after round 1 as he looks to defend his title at the Vermont Chapter Stroke Play Championship.

LEADERBOARD|ROUND 2 TEE TIMES

The players had to overcome the elements as temperatures hovered just over 90 degrees at Burlington Country Club.  The Donald Ross design classic provided a tough test with just one player breaking par on the day.

Bennett got his round off to a quick start by making birdie on the first hole.  The rest of the front nine he traded 2 birdies with three bogeys to shoot even-par 36.  On the back, he again started off with birdie on the tough 214-yard par-3 after sticking it to 10 feet.  After playing holes 11 through 17 in 1-over par, Bennett made a clutch birdie on 18 to finish at 1-under.

Also showing great play was the trio that will be chasing Bennett tomorrow during the 2nd round at Vermont National Country Club.  Zac Temple (The Quechee Club) and Todd Trono (Williston Golf Club) both shot 3-over 74 to share second place.  One shot behind them was David Jankowski who shot 75 at his home course.

Thank you to Burlington Country Club’s Head Professional Steve Hosack, First Assistant Kevin Bennison, and Superintendent Joe Martaniuk.  The Chapter would also like to thank our sponsors for the Stroke Play Championship, Avidia Bank, Farrell Distributing and Michelob Ultra, Dealer.com, Northstar Fireworks, Jim Mayo brands, Tournament Solutions, and the PGA Tour!