championships at Port Royal, marking the third time in as many years he has pulled out at the eleventh hour.

A winner of three Tour events and with almost $2 million in career earnings, the 48-year-old Thorpe cried off in both 1995 and 1996 but had promised to join this year's Open field and had even submitted his $275 entry fee.

However, Bermuda Golf Association secretary Tom Smith said he had received a call from Thorpe's agent yesterday, indicating he was no longer available.

"His agent said he was committed to a Pro-Am somewhere else,'' said Smith.

Thorpe's absence leaves four Tour pros in the field, including five-time PGA winner Ken Green. He'll be joined by Dan Halldorson, Bill Britton and 1995 Bermuda Open champion Mike Donald.

Many of the 81-strong field will compete in a Pro-Am at Port Royal today while the first round of the 72-hole championship is scheduled for tomorrow.

Tee-times, see Scoreboard