Home-course knowledge paid off in spades Saturday for John Shaw.
The Thunder Bay Country Club golfer shot a four-under 68 on the opening day of the Canadian Tire District Amateur, opening up a four-shot lead over Robbie Untinen with two rounds to go.
Brett Shewchuk and Jordan Potter are another stroke back after firing identical 73s.
Scott Glomba rounds out the top five with a three-over 75.
Former two-time champion Robert Cumming had a 77, tied with 2011 winner Ed Atwill and two others. Four-time winner Barry Caland shot eight-over 80.
The tournament moves to Strathcona Golf Course on Sunday and wraps up Monday at Whitewater Golf Course.