THERE was a strong turnout of 32 players competing in excellent weekend conditions in the opening round of this year's Winter League at Aberystwyth Golf Club.

After the first round, Stephen Cham leads the standings with an impressive 39 points, closely followed by Jeremy Edmunds on 38 points.

The leaderboard is already shaping up to be highly competitive, with a further five players tied just behind on 37 points.

With 12 Winter League weekends in total and 11 still to be played, there is plenty of golf ahead.

Remember, the overall champion will be decided by the average of each player's best six scores, meaning it is far too early to call a winner.

While Stephen Cham has made the perfect start, there is every opportunity for the chasing pack to close the gap and challenge for top spot in the weeks ahead.