James Madison junior Nicole Sakamoto was the only player to break par in yesterday’s opening round of the Hawaii State Women’s Stroke Play Championship.

Sakamoto, a Kalani High School graduate, played the front nine at Mid-Pacific Country Club in 1-under 35 and was even on the back. Her 71 is three shots better than runner-up Mariel Galdiano, who is 12.

Hayley Young, Kacie Harada and Hana Furuichi are tied for third at 76.

Sakamoto led the Jennie K. Wilson Invitational after the opening round in May at Mid-Pacific. She was coming off a sophomore season where she won two collegiate titles and was named James Madison’s MVP.

The second round is today and the final round tomorrow.