ISLAMABAD, Nov 9: Tariq Mahmood snatched a two-stroke lead on day one of the Federal Amateur Golf Championship at the Islamabad Club course Friday.

Tariq, a Master Chief Petty Officer, carded a three under par 69 with Vaqas Ahmad two strokes behind at one under par 71. After striking a birdie at hole No 1, Tariq could have got an eagle on hole 9. However, he missed doing so by a whisker before getting a birdie.

Tariq, who lost a stroke on hole 8, made amends and birdied on the next hole. A hat-trick of birdies on the final three holes gave him a clear advantage over his closest rival Vaqas.

The championship has attracted 63 amateur golfers. Defending champion Taimur Hasan surprisingly did not turn up on the opening day.

The two-day ladies and seniors’ competitions start Saturday.