SPORT

Golfing Bermuda

Many international golfing events occur in Bermuda, involving locals and visitors alike. A nice extra touch from late 1999 is that golfers can now book up to 60 days in advance. This should please cruise ship passengers in particular. Annual Bermuda golf tournaments include: the international Open Golf Championship in October with leading players; a Senior Golf Classic every January; a Valentine's Mixed Foursome Invitational in mid February; and the Easter Lilly Invitational for Ladies in March.

Port Royal is a Government run, public golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones, who has taken full advantage of some of Bermuda's most stunning South Shore terrain in laying out this popular and demanding course. This Par 71, 18-hole course measures 6,561 yards, featuring well-trapped greens and winding, bunkered fairways. Such luminaries as Jack Nicklaus rank this among the world's best public courses.

Riddells Bay is one of Bermuda's eldest country Clubs and has enticed golfers around the world since 1922. Winding along a peninsula, measuring only 600 yards at it widest, this 5,713-yard course ensures a magnificent challenge. Please note: Introduction by a Club member or your hotel management is required.

The Fairmount Southampton Princess offers a hilly, panoramic 18-hole layout designed by Theodore G. Robinson. An island gem designed to take your short game to new heights, The Fairmont Southampton Princess Golf Course features 18 challenging par 3 holes. Taking advantage of the beautiful surroundings and dramatic elevation changes, this 2,684-yard course forces prudent club selection, with wind a definite factor. Whether involved in tournament play or just a friendly game, you'll be delighted with the myriad of bunkers, 2 water hazards and 3 tee offerings. The golf club will store your bag on arrival, and offers a practice green and complete pro shop. Club and shoe rentals available.

St. Georges Club is the newest of Bermuda's Government golf courses. Designed by Robert Trent Jones, this Par 62, 4,043-yard course is challenging and breathtakingly beautiful, with ocean views on every hole. Located at the east end of the island, this course is close to many cultural attractions.

The Belmont Golf Club is set in a lush garden estate with commanding views over the great sound. This Emmitt Devereaux-designed, championship par 70 course offers a total yardage of less than 6,000, making for an enchanting round of golf. Tucker's Point Golf Club features newly designed holes and greens, contoured fairways and bunkers, and a new practice facility and driving range. Tucker's Point Club's new 18-hole championship golf course, designed by Roger Rulewich (former Senior Designer for Robert Trent Jones) builds upon the striking beauty of the former Castle Harbour golf course.

The Ocean View Golf Course is a government run, 9-hole public golf course of 2,940 yards. This superbly challenging Par 35 course has proven to be as competitive as it is picturesque. The elevated, central location offers wide North Shore vistas, and with 18 tee positions, you'll want to add a second nine to your conquest of the first.

Dress Description Dress is conservative. Bathing suits, abbreviated tops, short shorts and bare feet are not acceptable, except at beach or pool areas. Many restaurants and hotels require men to wear a jacket and often a tie in the evenings. However, many of Bermuda's best restaurants will accept those who wear proper Bermuda shorts and their accompanying attire.