Greensboro, NC-- Thirty five year old John Finster of Wake Forest tried to drive the 320 yard 9^th the first two days. Even though he nearly hit the green on both attempts, par was the best he could do. Stepping on the 9^th tee and trailing Graham Banister by one and tied with second round leader Bubba Judy, he took dead aim again and put his tee shot three feet from the hole.

After an admittedly nervous stroke sent the putt in for an eagle two, Finster found himself in the lead for the first time in the tournament. John had to watch Judy four-putt for a double bogey before his tournament turning putt went in. Judy never recovered and went on to shoot 76, good enough for a tie for eighth. First round leader, Preston Edmondson, fired an even par 71 to finish alone at third with a three under 209 total.

Bannister, an Aussie transplant and new to CGA competition, shot 32 on his front nine to take the lead after eight but could do no better than even on the back. His fine 68 put him alone in second, two behind Finster.

Starmount Forest CC, original home of the Greater Greensboro Open and site of the first USGA Women’s Open, gave the players fast and undulating greens that were in near perfect condition.