The amateur is among five local players who are competing in the inaugural Bermuda Championship.

“I’ve played some big events in the amateur game,” Dillas said. “The World Amateur is big, the Latin America where the winner gets into the Masters ... so I’ve played in events that have set-ups like this with respect to television towers and stuff like that.

“That won’t be new, but what will be is seeing so many people out here following who know us and it could be very easy when you’re out there to lose focus.

“That will be part of the added challenge along with the golf, just trying to stay focused, switch off and enjoy it between shots but then be able to switch back on and execute when needed.”

Dillas secured his spot in the PGA Tour event after finishing tied for first with fellow amateur Kenny Leseur and professional Michael Sims in a 36-hole qualifier at Port Royal this month.

Professionals Dwayne Pearman and Daniel Augustus are the remaining locals in the field.

Pearman was granted a sponsor’s exemption while Augustus comes in as the first alternate from the local qualifier.

They will be among a field boasting 49 PGA Tour champions with a combined 130 victories, including former Masters and PGA Championship winners Mike Weir and Davis Love III.

“We have had the Merrill Lynch Shootout way back and then Gillette Tour Challenge and PGA Grand Slam, [of Golf]” Dillas added. “All those were exhibitions, this is the real deal and there is a $3 million purse and 300 FedExCup points. You’ve got guys that this is their job.”

Dillas believes playing in familiar settings at Port Royal will have its advantages.

“We’ll play it a bit longer than we probably do normally in regular PGA events, so it’s going to be a premium on hitting fairways and greens,” he added.

“Those are the strengths of my game; I drive it well, so just try to get out there and give myself as many opportunities as possible and try and make a few putts.

“The forecast looks good so I hope to see some good scores and hopefully we’re among them.”

The Pro-Am tournament will be held today at Port Royal.

For further details visit www.bermudachampionship.com