PORT ROYAL's promise, it appears, has been fulfilled.

Little over a year after critics, including the government course's own members, poured scorn over the deterioration of what had once been hailed as the island's most spectacular lay-out, the improvement has been dramatic.

Chairman of the Trustees El James, who pledged a thorough overhaul, has been true to his word. He now believes the Southampton track is in as good a shape as at anytime in its 30-year history, and anybody who's played a round in the last few weeks might be inclined to agree.

Certainly Mid Ocean Club members, whose own real estate is suffering some problems at present, would have to concede they've been knocked off the top spot in the unofficial course rankings.

The changes at Port Royal may have been gradual, but thanks to a helping hand from Mother Nature and the effects of an irrigation system installed last year, the last few weeks have seen the course blossom into its impressive best.

Lush tee boxes are probably as good now as they were when the course first opened. The greens are fast and true, as they have been so often in the past, and the fairways absent of the bare patches that prompted much of the past criticism. Overall, the cutting back of trees and general manicuring have left the course with a much tidier appearance. And with the rangers seemingly keeping a tight rein on those golfers daring to steer their carts off the asphalt paths - at one time they appeared to do little more than refill water containers - there seems to be a genuine commitment to keep up the good work.

Bermudian Nick Mansell is the course superintendent, responsible for the day-to-day maintenance, and James is quick to compliment he and his staff.

"There were some things we had to do. And I think we finally came to grips with them," said James this week.

"Nick Mansell and his crew have finally got things in order. They've done a lot of work and now we're beginning to see the results. They take a lot of pride in what they're doing. "The comments we've had from tourists recently have been very encouraging. They've all said it's the best they've ever seen it.

"What we've tried to do is establish a more professional setting and a more professional atmosphere. You see what the rangers are doing, they're playing a big role in keeping play moving and keeping the course in order.

"But all of the staff really do deserve credit."

New restrooms have been built between holes three and four and James says future plans call for a similar building on the back nine close to the 13th green.

"It's an ongoing project," he said. "We've got the course almost where we wanted it.

"But if you think Port Royal is in good shape, you should see Ocean View and St. George's (government's other two courses). They're better than they've ever been."