DAVIDSON, N.C. – Elon's Bennett Smith put together an even-par 72 to tie for fourth place out of 60 players in opening-round action of the 2005 Southern Conference Men's Golf Championship Sunday afternoon at River Run Country Club.

Smith followed up his front-nine 35 with a back-nine 37 to lead all Phoenix golfers on the 7,022-yard course. East Tennessee State's Rhys Davies (32-36–68) leads the individual standings entering the second round of the three-round, three-day tournament.

In the team standings, Elon (307) shares sixth place with College of Charleston (307) and Furman (307). Davidson (292), East Tennessee State (297), Chattanooga (298), UNC Greensboro (301) and Georgia Southern (302) are the top-five leaders. Appalachian State (312), Western Carolina (314), Wofford (328) and The Citadel (339) make up the rest of the field.

James Hockman (Tied-29th/37-41–78), Justin Newton (Tied-29th/36-42–78), Jimmy Lytle (Tied-38th/40-39–79) and Keith Orlen (Tied-41st/40-40–80) are all representing the Phoenix.

– ELON –

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