The PGA of Bermuda stroke play championships start on Monday, with Scott Roy the early favourite to claim the title, despite the fact that he's never played in the event before.

Roy, who is the Bermuda Golf Association's new managing director, is seen as the man to beat following his early domination of the Island's newly-created Jack Daniels Tour. Top of the order of merit having won five of the first 10 tour events, Roy is 14 points clear of second-placed Dwayne Pearman, and 20 ahead of Twilton Smith who lies third.

Part of Roy's motivation for entering might be the fine start he's has made to the tour, including an impressive win earlier this week, with a two-under 68 at a wet and windy Tuckers Point, where next week's tournament is being held.

"In the past I've been working, or have had other commitments," said Roy. "This time I've closed off my week so I can play.

"I had a good round at Tuckers, but I also shot a terrible 89 at Port Royal the week before, I think I was playing left-handed that day. But it's three rounds, and one bad round could leave you out of it."

Chasing Roy will be defending champion Pearman, who won the event the last time it was played in 2008, but the likes of Smith, and Riddell's Bay professional Brian Morris will also fancy their chances.

"Twilton was looking good on Monday, until he had some trouble on the back nine," said Roy, "and Brian's in good form, so it's not going to be easy."

While Roy and the rest of the BPGA members will be battling it out for the title, the Island's newest professional, Daniel Augustus, will be attempting to join their ranks.

The winner of the inaugural Bacardi Par 3 National Championships, Augustus must complete four rounds at Tuckers Point in a combined score of 308 or less. With the way the Port Royal employee struck the ball two weeks ago, Roy doesn't see him having any difficulties in making that score.

"Daniel can easily do that," said Roy, "especially if he strikes the ball the way he has been doing."

n Bermuda's Terence Daniels helped the Grand Canyon University defend their Pacific West Conference men's golf title earlier this week by claiming the individual crown at Hawaii Prince Golf Course.

His victory enabled Daniels to exorcise some ghosts after tieing for first at the same event as a sophomore, losing in a play-off.

"It feels really good to know that I did my part to help out the team," said Daniels. "I had a little chip on my shoulder. I guess it was my turn to win."