PALM COAST, Fla. - The Grace men's golf team posted the low score during the first day of the NCCAA Golf National Championships, played at the Hammock Beach Ocean Course in Palm Coast, Florida. The Lancers shot a combined 301 to hold a three-shot lead over Asbury College (Ky.), which shot 304, and a five-shot advantage over Malone University (Ohio) with a 306.

Parker Wilburn shot his best round of the season, posting a 3-under 69 and taking the individual lead. He is the only golfer to shoot below par in the opening round.

Noah Wright completed the first round with a 76, while Blake Lawson shot 76 and Chase Byron finished at 78. Payton Kelly completed the squad with an 83.

"This team is starting to believe in themselves more and more each week as we've played in tournaments on great golf courses," said Coach Denny Hepler. "When we all play well on the same day, we will be tough to beat."

The 54-hole tournament continues on Tuesday with the second round and will conclude on Wednesday with the final round.

FIRST ROUND TEAM SCORES
1. Grace - 301
2. Asbury - 304
3. Malone - 306
4. Bob Jones - 309
5. Cedarville - 310
6. Bethel - 320
7. Campbellsville-Harrodsburg - 322
8. Central Christian - 334
9. North Central - 337