An starts title defense strong; Mullhaupt slow out of the gate

Bradenton's Ben An got off to a good start in defense of his U.S. Amateur title.

An carded a 2-under 70 in Monday's first round at The Home Course in Chambers Bay, Wash.

An, a native South Korean, relocated to Bradenton to work on his game.

Last year he won the U.S. Amateur and received invitations to PGA Tour events including The Masters. He also played in the U.S. and British opens.

Despite missing the cut in all three majors he played this year, the experience is sure to give An a boost down the road, which includes his college game beginning this year at the University of Cal-Berkeley.

An had six birdies to offset four bogeys that gave him a spot in the top ten with many players still on The Home Course and Chambers Bay Golf Course.

Meanwhile, Bradenton's Nicholas Mullhaupt finished at 3-over, 75. He played The Home Course for his opening round, too.

Mullhaupt's 75 leaves him in a bit of a hole - tied for 111th as of late afternoon on Monday.

Following the second round of stroke play Tuesday, the field will cut down to match play for the remainder of the tournament.