Rookie Machtaler leads in Vancouver
Surrey, BC - Rookie Greg Machtaler fired a seven-under 65 Friday to take the second-round lead at the Greater Vancouver Charity Classic.
Making just his second start on the Canadian Tour, the 23-year-old Summerland, British Columbia, native leads 2003 champion James Lepp by one shot at 10- under 134.
Machtaler made his first hole-in-one as a professional when he knocked an eight-iron 15 feet from the cup at Hazelmere Golf Club’s 187-yard eighth — his 17th hole — and watched it role in.
‘I couldn’t ask for a better start to my pro career,’ said Machtaler, who finished
23rd last weekend at the Times Colonist Open. ‘Starting in my home province and playing as well as I have, I couldn’t ask for anything more.’
This marks his first opportunity as the overnight leader.
‘To be honest, I’m just trying to make the most of this and believe in myself,’ Machtaler said. ‘When you get to this level, everyone can hit it well. I’m just trying to stay out of my own way and see where it takes me.’
Lepp shot a six-under 66 Friday and was alone in second place at nine-under 135. John Ellis (68) was in third place at eight-under 136, with Scott McNeil (70) another shot further back at 137.
The cut line fell at one-over 145 with 66 players moving on to the weekend.
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