Young Talent and Veteran Poise: A Thrilling Start to the Latin America Amateur Championship

Andy Schonbaum and Andrés Martínez Benedetti lead the Latin America Amateur Championship after the first round with impressive performances. The winner will qualify for top tournaments like the Masters. Both Schonbaum, an experienced player, and Benedetti, a debutant, exhibited commendable skills, joining the leaderboard.

Andy Schonbaum of Argentina and Andrés Martínez Benedetti of Venezuela delivered remarkable performances on Thursday during the opening round of the Latin America Amateur Championship, both posting a 4-under 66 despite relatively calm conditions at the Lima Golf Club.

Schonbaum, a seasoned player making his 10th appearance at the championship, demonstrated his experience with a series of three birdies across four holes on the back nine. His steady play puts him in prime position for the prestigious opportunities the championship winner gains, including spots at the Masters, U.S. Open, and British Open.

In contrast, 16-year-old Martínez Benedetti, a newcomer to the competition, showcased promising skill by advancing significantly in the later stages of his round. His performance, highlighted by three birdies on the front nine after starting at the back, has already marked him as a formidable contender alongside Schonbaum at the top of the leaderboard.

(With inputs from agencies.)