a `three-peat', the monicker brought to life after storied title runs by the NBA's Chicago Bulls during the era of another Mike...Jordan.

Now, Sims may not yet be of comparable scale to the world famous MJ. However, the 21-year-old is known to attack the golf course in a not dissimilar manner to how the basketball star took the ball to the hoop.

There is also a matter of history being made if indeed the youngster does manage a third straight title, as he would become the first ever to win three times on the trot.

"I don't know who's won it the most times in a row, but I would like to beat that and make it three in a row,'' said Sims, relaxing at home after playing a practice round with his father Bruce, resident pro Frankie Rabain and sister Lindsey, the defending women's champ.

"It's always an accomplishment to three-peat.'' Still, Sims will have to watch out for a bevy of challengers, all of whom have great incentive, as there are four spots available on the Bermuda World Cup team up for grabs. The top four finishers who are also among the leading 12 in the Order of Merit -- Sims wasn awarded a wild card -- will make the team.

Among those set to make a run include last year's runner-up Nick Mansell, Tim Carr, as well as Ian Page. Former multiple winner Robert Vallis will not compete and would have been a prime challenger, while, Mark Dupuy, third in 1999, has left the Island.

"My chances are good, I feel. Just got to play some smart golf and see where it goes,'' said Sims, who has been getting lessons overseas.

"I've been working on a few things, I just got a new set of sticks that I've been using for the last couple of weeks. I'm a little tentative on some things, but I feel pretty good right now.

"I'm trying to hit the ball more consistently. People always say I hit the ball a long way. I'm trying to lose that and hit it a little straighter. I'm also practising a lot on my short game.'' Players will likely have to make adjustments between the front and back nines, with the new irrigation installed on the first half making for slow greens, while the absence of water on the back means they will play faster.