A black umpire has hit out at claims of racism put forward by two workers at the recent XL Capital Bermuda Open.

In Monday's Royal Gazette it was claimed black tennis officials were constantly asked to show their passes while white counterparts were waived through.

It was also alleged black people were barred from parking spots and indoor toilets.

But Sande French said the article painted a false picture of the tournament at Coral Beach tennis club.

She said: "I am a professional American tennis umpire. I am also black. I have worked the XL Bermuda Open for the past six years.

"I could only shake my head slack-jawed at the allegations.

"`The first time I worked here I was instantly reminded of the small town college I attended, due to the friendliness of everyone I encountered. People spoke to me even though they didn't know me.

"This is my favourite tournament for that reason but also because it is one of the few tournaments where umpires are treated with respect.

"At the beginning of the first night session, four umpires were walking down to the court.

"The security guard asked for our passes which we did not possess. I said, `We're umpires' and she let us through.

"Only one other time was I asked for my badge and once again I didn't have it. The guard recognised the navy shirt as our uniform and let me pass.

"I did not carry my badge for the duration of the tournament, nor was I asked to show it again.

"Three of the six years I have worked here my housing family has been off the Island.

"The first two times this happened I hadn't even met them, yet they opened their homes to a complete stranger.'' She said she had even been given a luxury billet staying with Mrs. Frida Chappell, owner of Coral Beach Club.

She said: "Does this sound racist to you?''