The Bermuda Open - part of the Association of Chess Professionals - got off to a good start at the Fairmont Southampton Hotel on Friday.

The three-day Open continues this weekend and is open to all chess enthusiasts and players for a fee of $100.

Several players of the Invitational Tournament, held earlier this month at the Harmony Club, have already confirmed participation so chances are good that you might end up playing against one of the Grand Masters.

The prize fund of $5,000 is made up of a $1,000 return ticket and hotel in 2006 as well as cash prizes of $800, $600, $400 and $200. There is also a return ticket and hotel prize up for grabs to the top amateur as well as several cash prizes.