Classic, gets underway this morning at St. George's Golf Club featuring a blend of senior professionals and amateurs contesting over 54 holes.

According to organiser Kim Swan the event is designed to allow amateurs and pros compete against each other on a more level playing field and offers a minimum purse of $4,000, with the winning pro set to walk away with at least $1,000.

There is also a dazzling array of prizes for the amateurs, who will be grouped into flights after 36 holes so that they have a better chance at getting among the prizes.

"This event is a ground breaker for the PGA, because next year we will also look to include amateurs and pros from overseas,'' said Swan, who added that it will also further expose the town of St. George.

"We didn't have time to promote it overseas this year, but we'll be looking to have it next year between January and March and likely look to match the number of local contestants with visitors.'' Swan reasoned that a tournament such as this provided an ideal forum for visitors to interact with locals, find out about the Island while enjoying a game of golf.

"It's very difficult for visitors to come here, play golf with locals and not have fun,'' Swan continued. "We're looking to grow activities in Bermuda that will allow us to promote ourselves and the Island.

"I feel that Bermudians are our main attribute and having locals mingling with the tourists is a good thing and one which will aid tourism.'' Former top junior pros -- now seniors -- set to take part include Frankie Rabain, Keith Smith, J.J.Madeiros, Eardley Jones and Denton Outerbridge.

Meanwhile, among the amateur list are Winston (Coe) Trott, Max Atherden, Adrian Crockwell and Ivan Smith.

Kim Swan: driving force behind a new seniors golf tournament which tees off at St. George's GC today.