Melcher, from Mansfield, recorded three birdies in his opening round, but also claimed three bogeys on his way to an even par day. Melcher’s front nine included two birdies and one bogey to turn at 1-under par 35. His back nine was flipped from the front, with two bogeys and one birdie.

Tied for second after the first round at 1-over par 73 include Montgomery’s Tom McGraw, Harlingen’s Ray Iler and Wayne Wright, of Aledo.

In a tie for fifth place at 3-over par 75 are McKinney’s Gary Kirwan, Houston’s David Bean, Sam Boyd and Aaron Billings, both of Horseshoe Bay.

In the Legends Division Georgetown’s Smith posted an opening round 77 to hold a narrow lead over Don Grider, of Georgetown, and Houston’s Mike Rice. Both Grider and Rice opened with a 78. Sitting alone in fourth place at 81 is Carey Schulten, of Dallas.