Russley’s Hung leads NZ amateur golf field

Auckland’s Leonard Powell has made a late charge to lead the New Zealand amateur golf championships after round one.

In trying conditions in the rain at Royal Wellington Golf Club on Wednesday, Powell held the clubhouse lead after a run of three birdies in his final four holes in the morning.

He remained in pole position as the afternoon field were unable to match his impressive three-under 68.

It has been a long time since the 20-year-old has seen his name at the top, but he was more pleased his parents would be able to enjoy the occasion when they looked online.

‘‘I’m just happy my Mum and Dad won’t have to scroll down as far to read my name this time,’’ laughed Powell after his consistent round.

‘‘Hitting 15 greens was the most pleasing part because I can’t remember the last time that happened, so to show some consistency and make just the one bogey was awesome.’’

Powell will be looking to erase the memories of reaching last year’s top 32, only then be knocked out in the opening round of the matchplay.

There is a strong group attempting to take the top qualifying medal away from Powell, with Waikato’s No 1, Luke Toomey, joining a host of golfers at twounder par.

Toomey is the holder of the New Zealand strokeplay championship

Shaun Campbell was a surprise package and spent most of his time at the top of the leaderboard after four birdies throughout the day.

It is a family affair for the Campbells this week, with Alanna looking to go from qualifying champion last year, to New Zealand amateur champion this year with the assistance of her mother on the bag once again this week.

At one stage both Campbells were leading each division before Alanna dropped off the pace to open the door for Canterbury’s Julianna Hung.

With a three-under 69 (women par 72) Hung showed class making five birdies in the threatening afternoon conditions.

Even with her slight lack of distance and experience at the age of only 14, she showed skill around the greens to prove she can match it with the country’s best.

Recent Harewood Open winner Rose Zheng is one shot back and will remain a threat.

She is joined by the experienced Chantelle Cassidy..