The PGA is looking for a few good volunteers

How would you like to get up close and personal with US Open champion Rory McIlroy?

Maybe you’re a big fan of Masters’ winner Charl Schwartzel and would love to rub shoulders with him when he comes to Bermuda in October.

Either way, you’ll get a chance to do that as a volunteer at the 2011 PGA Grand Slam of Golf at Port Royal Golf Course.

The PGA of America and Port Royal Golf Course have begun their recruitment drive for this year’s Grand Slam which pits the winners of the four Majors — The Masters, The US Open, the British Open and the PGA Championship — in a two-day tournament worth $1.35 million.

This year’s event will be the fifth time it has been held in Bermuda with the previous winners being Ernie Els (2010), Lucas Glover (2009), Jim Furyk (2008), and Angel Cabrera (2007).

A spokesperson said: “With half the field of qualifiers now set, the volunteer recruitment effort has intensified for the October tournament at Port Royal Golf Course. Volunteers will rub shoulders with newly crowned U.S. Open Champion Rory McIlroy and Masters Champion Charl Schwartzel.  Two more of professional golf’s top performers will round out the foursome later this summer.”

Enthusiasm

Andy Burrows, general chairman of the 2011 PGA Grand Slam of Golf, said: “We could not do this event without the great support from the volunteers.

“Every year we see tremendous enthusiasm from Bermudians who come and support this event through volunteering.”

The roles are vast and wide in the volunteer ranks and a participant does not need to be a golf fan to be eligible; however, a general knowledge of the game is helpful.

One position that provides great viewing and exclusive access is that of marshal.

These positions are spread out around the course coordinating the flow of movement for the players, caddies, officials and media. 

More than 140 marshals are needed.

The event will also require about 45 additional people to assist with ropes and stakes, scoring, signage, admission and distribution.

People interested in more information can find it at http://www.pga.com/grandslam by clicking on the volunteer tab.

This is also where volunteers can sign up for the role he or she prefers. It only takes a few minutes.

Volunteers will be expected to pay $50 for their volunteer package consisting of two golf shirts, a pair of shorts or skort and headwear to be worn as uniforms.

Volunteers will also be issued an official golf programme, food vouchers, parking privileges and a volunteer credential to attend all three days of the tournament.

The credential can also be used when a volunteer is not on duty.

The volunteer package has a value of more than $250.

The PGA Grand Slam of Golf is Monday, October 17, to Wednesday, October 19. Volunteers are asked to sign up immediately.