Goffstown, New Hampshire (July 14, 2014) -Nick Pandelena of Atkinson Resort & Country Club fired an impressive round of 6-under par 66 to take the first round lead at the New Hampshire State Amateur.

Pandelena had a pedestrian first nine carding 8 pars and a single birdie. But after a bogey at the 10th, Pandelena went on a tear. He birdied #11, #13, #15, and #17 and made eagle at the par-5 14th to get to 6-under. "I started slow, but played really well on the back," said Pandelena. The rising junior at Boston College said his ball striking was the key to his round. "I didn't miss many iron shots all day and that's the key out here."

Pandelena's round was just the beginning of what he hopes is a successful week. "I'm here to win. But there's a long way to go and there are a lot of really good players out here. I'm just trying to take it one day at a time." His game seems to be hitting its stride at the right time. "This is the best, most consistent golf I've played all year," he said.

Damon Salo of Bretwood GC is one shot back after firing a 5-under par round of 67. Salo had seven birdies against just two bogies to put himself in good shape heading into round two. Josh Chamberlain shot a 3-under par 69 and sits in third place. Defending champion Mike Martel shot a 1-under par 71.

All competitors will again play 18-holes of stroke play tomorrow before the field is cut to the low-64 players for the match play portion of the event.