SILVIS, Ill. -- The University of the Cumberlands men's golf team is tied for eighth following the opening round of the 2010 NAIA National Championships at TPC Deere Run.

Cumberlands shot a team-total 299 and trails first round leader Oklahoma Christian University (291) by eight shots.

Cumberlands' Pierre Carlsson shot an even par 71 today to lead the Patriots. Carlsson is tied for ninth overall in the 156-man field.

Carlsson carded four birdies on the round, including birdies on two of the three par 5s.

Curtis Mitchell is tied for 47th following his opening round 75 and Niclas Rigbrandt is tied for 58th with a 76. Michael Burgan (77) and Aaron Watkins (79) are tied for 74th and 103rd respectively to round out the Patriot quintet.

Georgetown College's Christian Heavens -- who earned his spot in the national championship by winning the conference's individual title -- is tied for 117th after an 80.

Oklahoma Christian's Axel Ochoa is leading the tournament after he fired a four-under par 67.

Cumberlands begins its second round at 8:30 a.m. CT on Wednesday. Heavens tees off at 7:48 a.m. CT.