Jonathan Ota leads Hawaii Amateur

AIEA, Hawaii (Mar 8, 2012) -- Jonathan Ota, 50, of Lihui, Hawaii is the leader after the first round of the Hawaii Amateur. Ota fired a 3-under-par 69 in a round that included 3 birdies and an eagle. He sits two ahead of defending champion, Lorens Chan of Honolulu, who shot a 1-under-par 71. At even par 72 and in striking distance is 15-year-old John Oda of Honolulu, who nearly won the Pearl Open last month. He lost in a play-off to professional Jun Won Park. Zachary Braunthal of Honolulu is in fourth at 73. Carl Ho of Honolulu leads the senior division with a 75. David Homanda and David Kochi, both of Honolulu, are tied for second at 76. Play continues Friday in the 72-hole tournament held at the Pearl Country Club.