SPRINGFIELD - Brad Nurski is the two-time defending champion in the Missouri Men's Amateur.
He started his title defense Tuesday like he wants to three-peat.
Nurski, from St. Joseph, fired an eight-under 64 to take a five-shot lead after the opening round of the event at Hickory Hills Country Club. The eight-under round, which featured eight birdies and 10 pars, ties the Missouri Amateur record for the lowest 18-hole score.
Four players - Christopher Ferris of St. Louis, Kyle Long of Joplin, Richard Berkmeyer of Town and Country, and Tommy Boone of Columbia - are tied for second after shooting three-under 69s.
A total of 23 players broke or shot par Tuesday.
Gabe Trowbridge of Jefferson City is in a 13-way tie for 25th after the opening round with a 73. Walker Kesterson of Ashland and Logan Taylor of Holts Summit are among the golfers tied for 54th after shooting 75 on Tuesday.
A total of 150 players started play Tuesday. Action will continue today with another round of stroke play to cut the field to the top 64 golfers, who will start the match play portion of the tournament Thursday.
This is the 112th edition of the Missouri Men's Amateur, hosted by the Missouri Golf Association.