WHEN Ross (Blackie) Talbot passed away a year ago last November tributes poured in for one of Bermuda's most respected and celebrated musicians.

Yet it now seems his legacy will stretch beyond the boundaries of entertainment.

Such has been the success of a charity tournament started by his son Clem, that Blackie's name will seemingly also always be associated with golf, his second passion in life.

The event had humble beginnings back in 1993, but ten years on it has mushroomed into by far the biggest charity competition in Bermuda.

Its popularity has reached such proportions that this year Clem and his band of helpers have had to spread the event over two days at Riddell's Bay - Thursday, April 4 and Friday, April 5.

An estimated 400-plus golfers will compete in four separate shotgun starts, morning and afternoon over the two days.

Sponsors have been queuing up to play their part in a tournament that has already raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for various charities and on this, the event's 10th anniversary, will aim to rake in another $150,000 or more.

Clem's employers, the Bank of Bermuda, will again be the lead sponsors, but dozens of other major companies are also contributing. Indeed, such has been the response some have even had to be turned away.

"Last year we had to put on an extra half-day to accommodate all those who wanted to play and this year, the 10th anniversary, we've just had to take a full two days," said Clem earlier this week.

"I think we're looking in the area of 420 players.

"It's just grown beyond my wildest imagination. We've even had to take on a part-time administrator in order that it continues to be organised in the way that people have come to expect.

"I believe we get the sponsors we do because it is a well organised, professionally run event that encompasses all cross-sections of the community, whether it be racial, social or religious . . . everyone comes together.

"What drives me to a large degree is that I feel other organisations can follow our example."

Because of this year's anniversary, Talbot acknowledged a special emphasis was being placed on the fund-raising, the proceeds of which will go towards the Adult Education School, YouthNet, the Bermuda Dance Company as well as the Ross (Blackie) Talbot Foundation.

"What we're trying to do is equal the record fund-raising experience we enjoyed last year when we raised $150,000. That's a lot of money to raise from one event and I'm pretty optimistic that we can make that target, if not exceed it."

One of the major features of the event is the raffle, which organisers believe offers a bigger and better array of prizes than any other held locally.

This year, for instance, the prize-list includes two cars, two motorcycles, a 32 inch television, a $1,000 travel certificate and numerous hotel packages.

On top of those, another car is being offered for a hole-in-one and an all expenses-paid trip to London for first prize in a golfing skills contest which will be held in conjunction with the main tournament. All those in the various shotgun starts who win the respective closest to the pin awards will then go forward to the skills contest.

The tournament itself is a four-ball, better-ball with prizes for net team scores only. Players will play off 80 percent of their handicap.

Deadline for entries is March 20.

"I would advise those who want to play to get their entries in soon," said Talbot. "Last year we were over subscribed, and I have a feeling the same could happen this year."