IRON MOUNTAIN — Norway’s Mike Solda, playing in the first group of the day, fired a two-under par 70 Monday to lead the 15th annual UP Senior Championship at Pine Grove Country Club.

Solda collected three of his four birdies on the back nine to shoot a 34 in the tournament’s opening round. Defending champion Scott Saari of Ishpeming shot 34 over the front nine and posted a 71 for second.

Mark Ray of Escanaba stands third at 72. Dale Ward Jr. leads the Pine Grove contingent with a 73.

Three golfers are tied at 74 — Tim Kramer of Menominee, 2017 senior champion Larry Bratonia of Gladstone and Tom LaVigne of Iron Mountain.

Iron Mountain’s Paul Bujold, 75; Jeff Jayne, 77, and Marc Mogan, 78, along with Phil Johnson, 78, of Marquette round out championship flight.

The 36-hole medal play tournament concludes today.