Kim Swan is hoping organisers of the Johnnie Walker Classic have a “last-minute rethink” over a revision to the competition’s rules that has denied one of Bermuda’s top amateur golfers entry into the event.

Oliver Betschart, 17, is ineligible to compete in the 36-hole tournament at Ocean View Golf Course this weekend after tournament organisers raised the minimum age required to compete to 18.

Swan, who has served as chairman of Bermuda Government Golf Courses, said the timing of the rule change is difficult on the promising teenager and has also denied him the opportunity to test his game against adults, which was beneficial to the former European Tour player’s own development as a youngster.

“I’m unaware of the reasoning for the rule change at this time,” Swan told The Royal Gazette.

“The timing of the rule change/implementation is especially difficult for Oliver, who has played in this tournament on two previous occasions. He is a former amateur winner in this championship and is looking for every opportunity to test his game.

“Ironically, 50 years ago when I was one of the island’s top juniors, playing with adults benefited my development immensely. Hopefully, there will be a last-minute rethink.”

Defending champion Camiko Smith is also unhappy that one of the island’s top players will not be able to showcase his talents this year.

“I am disappointed not to have Oliver Betschart in the tournament this year as he is one of the top local players and a past winner,” Smith said.

Tournament director and acting Ocean View head professional Oliver Pitcher has declined to comment on the matter, as did Bermuda Golf Association president Craig Brown.

However, Owen Darrell, the sports minister, did go on the record to point out that while Ocean View is run by the Government, the rules and regulations for the tournament are solely the responsibility of the organising committee.

“The Government of Bermuda strongly supports all sports and young athletes in our community,” he said.

“While the Classic is held at a government-owned facility, it is important to note that the Johnnie Walker Classic is a privately run event.

“The eligibility criteria are set by its organising committee and Ocean View simply serves as the host venue. The management and rules of the tournament remain the responsibility of the private committee that oversees the Classic.”

Betschart vented his frustration over the new policy earlier this week.

“I’m very disappointed to be ruled ineligible for this year’s Johnnie Walker Classic because of my age,” he said.

“I have played the last two years, winning low amateur in 2023 and finishing fourth-best amateur in 2024, so it makes little sense that I’m suddenly not allowed to compete at 17.

“This is one of the few Bermuda events where top pros and amateurs meet, so it’s frustrating to be left out.”