Grayson Murray, an incoming golfer at Arizona State, who qualified for the 2013 U.S. Open at Merion, fired a seven-under 64 in the first round and takes the early lead.

Murray countered just two bogeys with nine birdies, including five on the back nine. His red-hot finish keeps him one shot better than Trevor Simsby of the University of Washington. Simsby shot 6-under 65.

Taylor Moore from the University of Arkansas is alone in third place at 5-under 66.

A field loaded with some of the nation's top NCAA golfers hopes to catch Murray in Saturday's second of three rounds.

The inaugural Saguaro Amateur runs through Sunday, Jan. 5 and includes 108 men's amateur golfers.

The Saguaro Amateur was the idea of NCAA golf coaches Roy Edwards (Colorado) and Joe Jensen (Wyoming).

“We were having trouble locating a tournament for our players in their off-season to compete and get the rust off,” Edwards said. “We figured we were not the only ones having this issue. Coach Jensen and I decided to start our own event and to provide a competitive avenue in a great environment.”

Southern Dunes is playing at about 7,150 yards for the event.

“Southern Dunes is a first-class property and will provide a fun and competitive test for our participants,” Edwards said. “The staff there is well-known for great hospitality and service and the golf course is always in championship condition. We are excited to partner with such a great facility for the talented players who will be coming from all over the United States.”

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