torrential rain that followed certainly was.

With fairways saturated, greens under water and tees caked in mud, yesterday's first round of the annual Gosling's Amstel Belmont Invitational was cancelled shortly before mid-day, reducing the 25th anniversary event to a 54-hole competition.

Only one group had managed to complete their round in the atrocious conditions, and most of the 120-plus field were still out on the course when thunder and lightning sent players scurrying back into the clubhouse.

Although the storm passed over, a half hour later tournament director Keith Cassidy announced that play would be cancelled in order to preserve the course for the rest of the week's play.

One of those likely upset by the decision was local favourite Dwayne Pearman, who despite the wind and rain, had moved to two under par at the turn. His round, however, like everyone else's, will be scratched from the records as the tournament begins anew this morning.

Two years ago the Invitational was also reduced to 54-holes when heavy rain prevented play on the final day, handing American Tim Conley his second victory in three years.

Conley won for a third time last year but isn't back to defend his title as he attempts to earn his PGA Tour card at this week's final PGA qualifying tournament.

Zane DeSilva made a remarkable recovery over the final two rounds to help hoist Bermuda into a respectable 25th position at the end of the Simon Bolivar tournament in Caracas, Venezuela over the weekend.

After struggling to scores of 85 and 81 over the par 71 Legunita Country Club course, DeSilva rebounded with rounds of 74 and 73.

Nick Mansell who had opened with rounds of 72 and 76 continued to shine as he finished with a 77 and 76.

That left Bermuda with a final total of 614 for the 72-hole tournament, placing them 25th out of the 33 nations.

The competition was won by Japan who pipped hosts Venezuela by one shot -- 558 to 559.

Individually Mansell finished 42nd in the field of 66 players, while DeSilva placed 57th.