BY GENE COLEMAN

The Natchez Democrat

NATCHEZ — Four players were tied for the lead Wednesday evening as the All Pro Tour’s Taco Bell Natchez Classic golf tournament completed its first round at Beau Pre’ Country Club.

Michael Smith, Paul Haley, Bobby Wyatt and Jacob Bergeron were each seven under par on the day. Four players tied at six under par and seven tied for third with five under par.

The tournament will consist of 72 holes of stroke play with 97 players competing. After 36 holes, the field will be cut to the top 35 percent of the field, capped at a maximum of 50 players.

Kent Paisley, digital producer, said the recent rain presents one of the players’ challenges.

“With all the recent rain and then sunshine today, we’re playing the ball up. Right now, hitting the ball in the rough is very punishing,” Paisley said.

Paisley said other challenges also are presented through the course.

“The 16th hole is a par three, that’s 200 yards, all over water. The 14th is a par four that’s pretty narrow, and it was playing into the wind today,” he said.

Play continues today with the finals taking place on Saturday. Players are vying for their share of a $100,000 purse. The APT is guaranteeing a minimum of $20,000 to the top player.

The APT tour is in its 27th year. Paisley said former APT players who found success include 2018 PGA Tour players Bryce Garnett, Austin Cook and Andrew Landry and 2018 Ryder Cup competitors Tony Finau and Bubba Watson.