Bermuda is set to host the Atlantic International Junior Championship Alumni Tournament next summer.

The 54-hole event will showcase players who honed their skills competing on the former Atlantic International Junior Championship from the late 1970s to early 1990s who went on to play professionally in various overseas Tours, including the Korn Ferry Tour and LPGA.

The championship will take place at Port Royal Golf Course and Belmont Hills from July 11 to 13, 2023.

“We are working to get the word out to as many former players as possible,” AIJC alumni and well-known distance runner Geoffrey Blee said.

“More than 75 players have already expressed an interest in attending and most want to bring their families. The event will include social gatherings and activities for everyone.”

Among the former players from the AIJC who went on to become professional on various overseas Tours are Bermuda’s Michael Sims, who played on the Korn Ferry Tour, as well as Michelle Bell and Cathy Reynolds who played on the LPGA.

Others, such as former Bermuda Open winner Dwayne Pearman and Cornell Bean, went on to firmly establish themselves locally.

Organisers hope to see some of those golfers, along with several of Bermuda’s best-known players over the years involved in the alumni tournament.

The tournament organising committee is comprised of alumni from Bermuda, England, United States and Canada, including past players and champions Nick Mansell, Anthony Mocklow, Philip Hidden, Bill Reynolds, Simon Roberts and Blee.

“Back in the day, these players were 21 years old and under and most of them billeted with local families,” Blee added. “They had wonderful experiences on the island and many lifelong friendships were formed.

“We have been batting around the idea of an alumni tournament for a few years and finally have enough interest to take it on. We invite everyone to come back to our beautiful island to play golf with old friends and make new memories.”

As well as rekindling past memories and battling for bragging rights, participants will be playing for a worthy cause as all proceeds are to go in support of the Bermuda Island Games Association.

“We are proud to support the island and its athletes,” Blee said.

“As we move forward with our planning, we welcome any sponsorship or partnership inquiries from local businesses who are interested in becoming involved with the event.”

For more information, visit the event website or the Atlantic International Alumni Reunion – Bermuda 2023 Facebook page