Chris Oldrey, assistant professional at Thorpeness and his amateur partner Richard Newton, a former Suffolk Seniors' champion, were joint leaders of the Design Portfolio Marketing Services PGA East Region Autumn Classic after the foursomes at Aldeburgh.
They returned a one-under-par net round of 67 leaving them level with Joe Braddon (Tilsworth Golf Centre) and Jeff Buffenbargen going into the better ball round at Thorpeness.
Oldrey, who was a leading Aldeburgh amateur, and Newton had a rocky start with two dropped shots at the second. A birdie at the testing third was followed by as further bogey at the fourth with its long narrow green.
From then on the partnership flourished with three more birdies and no dropped shots which showed exceptional consistency in chilly, windy conditions.
Several pairs are within range to put in a strong challenge to the leaders. Frank Hill, head professional at Thorpeness, and club owner Tim Rowan-Robinson set an early pace with one over par 69. They are only two shots behind with course advantage to come.