Saturday's opening day of the 84th trophy took almost 10 hours to complete.
The name of Harry Bithell cannot be found on a major trophy – yet such has been his prowess in reaching the final stages that he has a massive handicap to overcome.
Bithell did so in style, edging through to the last 16 on the back of two 28-26 wins.
In the afternoon session, the cheers rang loud and long for teenager Jack Wood as he claimed the notable scalp of former England international golfer Geoff Birtwell, who was the first to congratulate the youngster.
One of the first competitors to tread the immaculate green was the 2004 champion Ron Carradice, who was ousted 24-13 by Joe Hibberson.
After two more excellent performances, Hibberson became the first qualifier for the last 16 stage.
Recent LSA Express Trophy runner-up Peter Grimston duly claimed his place in the last 16, overcoming 2007 runner-up Derek Clarke and the previous year's winner Bernard Butler.
Geoff Worden lifted the trophy on the St George's green 34 years ago and now faces a stern challenge from his Ex-Service compatriot Terry Wood. Also in the third quarter, Jack Wood will find the going tough as he faces Yorkshireman Don Yeadon.
An intriguing contest is due to take place in the final quarter. Holder John Rayton comes up against the formidable James Grimston in what is arguably the match of the last 16.
Recently settled in the area from Shropshire, Grimston is fast becoming a force to be reckoned with.
He opened his account last weekend for his new county, North Lancs and Fylde, against the Potteries with an excellent 21-9 victory over Joe Williamson.
The remaining 16 play down to the final four tonight (Thursday, 6.30pm), with the semi-finals and final from 2pm on Saturday, when the Mayor of Fylde, Coun. Susan Fazackerly, will present the prizes.
The winner receives £100 and the trophy, with £50 for the runner-up, £25 for semi-finalists and £15 for quarter-finalists. .

Last 16 draw
6.30 pm: J Hibberson (St Annes Ex-Service) v I Fraser (Lowther Gardens), M Cainer (Lowther Gardens) v C Anderson (St Annes Ex-Service), H Bithell (Bae Systems) v F Higham (Mythop BC), J Wilkinson (Mythop BC) v P Grimston (St Annes Ex-Service).
7.15pm: J G Worden (St Annes Ex-Service) v T Wood (St Annes Ex-Service), J Wood (St Annes Ex-Service) v D Yeadon (St Annes Ex-Service), J Rayton (Freckleton) v J Grimston (St Annes Ex-Service), S Hargreaves (East End BC) v R Moorhouse (St Georges).