Championships in Israel have got off to a flying start in the competition.

The first round of debates was held yesterday with the Bermudian team thrashing both rank outsiders Estonia and competition hosts Israel 3--0.

And despite a defeat by competition favourites Singapore, morale in the team is high.

Jennifer Rhind, Jordan Zancanella, Trevor Leitch and Vincent Richardson flew out to Israel last week to take part in the competition.

And despite fears that the location might dissuade teams from entering a record number of 23 countries are taking part in the event.

The Bermudian team is considered an outside favourite having just missed out on a quarter final place when it hosted the same event last year.

Bermuda Debate Society chairman Terry Lister, who has been receiving daily reports on the team's progress, said: "We can't keep the team down at the moment -- they're really enjoying it.

"Our aim this year is to get into the quarter finals. We came close last time and the team is confident we can do it this time.

"Although we lost 3--0 to Singapore they are one of the favourites along wit the US and England and I'm told it was a very close contest.

"But this is a great opportunity for the team to meet up with other children from all over the world. As well as preparing for the debates they're also doing a lot of sightseeing and enjoying themselves.''