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The Bermuda Open golf tournament will have a new feel to it this year as it is played at the Tucker's Point course for the first time.

With renovations still happening at Port Royal a venue change was necessary for the tournament, which will take place from November 18 to 21.

The tournament could also be assured of a new champion if Tim Conley doesn't participate.

Conley's won three of the last four tournaments - including the last two - but is away in the U.S. at Champions Tour Qualifying School.

Rick Bartlett, secretary for the Bermuda Golf Association, said he expects between 50 and 60 golfers to sign up by the Nov. 10.

"Mike is away. It depends if he gets to the next round or not whether he comes here," Bartlett added. "There are two or three of our regulars doing exactly the same thing."

He said former PGA player Mike Donald and Craig Marseilles are two others who are away at the qualifying school and may miss the Bermuda open.

Bartlett said if Conley isn't here, some of the favourites could be Michael Sims - who won the 2005 Bermuda Open - and Tucker's Point pro Paul Adams.

He said the switch to Tucker's Point will cause the golfers to play the tournament differently.

"It's not quite as long, but they can make up for it by better position of tees."

Entry fees are $500 for professionals and $400 for amateurs.

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