The PGA Tour will launch the Bermuda Championship this atuumn — but more Bermudians are needed to make the event a success.

Jordan Burns, volunteer co-ordinator with event organiser Bruno Event Team, said the search is on to find as many as 700 people willing to give their time to make the first event the best it can be.

Ms Burns said: “This is something great to be a part of.

“It’s 120 of the world’s best golfers coming out to Bermuda to play golf.

“No golf knowledge is required — you can come out and help out with the merchandise committee or work cash registers.

“But we also have volunteers like the walking scorers, who are very important, we have TV spotters who will work with The Golf Channel.

“There are many opportunities for people to come out and get involved.”

Ms Burns said a large number of people have already volunteered to take part, with many doing so in aid of one of more than a dozen charities set to benefit from the event.

“We have 16 registered charities in our system right now that volunteers can sign up on behalf of,” Ms Burns said.

“They will be able to raise money for these charities, the amount depending on how many volunteers they get.

“A bunch of the schools are getting involved as well.

“We have a junior volunteer programme, so we have been talking to students about getting involved.”

Ms Burns said that some golf fans will be travelling to Bermuda specifically to volunteer at the event.

“Most volunteers love the experience because they are in the middle of the action, giving back to the community,” she said.

“A lot of people will come over from the US and Canada to volunteer, because they love volunteering so much and they have had such a great experience doing it before.”

Becky Kolberg, tournament manager with Bruno Event Team, added that it is vital for Bermudians to get involved in the event for it to be a success.

She said: “When you get involved and take ownership of something that’s here, and you are proud of it, and that translates into more things that we as organisers can do with it.

“It’s important that you have that ownership and that pride in putting this event together.”

She said organisers hope to sign up as many people as possible by October 1 in advance of volunteer orientation on October 12, but that those who sign up early will have more options for volunteering.

Ms Kolberg said: “We have 17 committees, but earlier is better.

“Right now, some committees are closing, some are filling quite quickly, so signing up early helps you get your choices.”

Ms Burns said volunteers will each receive an event polo shirt and hat, along with two free tickets for friends and family.

She added: “You are required to work three shifts, and the shifts are about four to six hours each, depending on which committee you are on.

“We are willing to work with you — we know a lot of people work on the island and we understand if you are only able to work two shifts, but really to put on a successful event we are looking to find people willing to do three shifts.”

The Bermuda Championship will be held at the Port Royal Golf Course from October 31 to November 3.

• Anyone who wants to volunteer, or wants to learn more about volunteering, can visit www.bermudachampionship.com