Soaring temperatures could be to the advantage of Bermuda’s team of archers competing in the Island Games in Rhodes, according to skipper Jeane Butterfield.

She believes the hotly tipped Scandinavian countries may struggle to cope with the scorching climate and hopes Bermuda may be the surprise tournament package.

The 40-year-old, who was the Island’s sole representative in the Shetlands in 2005, has been joined by 45-year-old Paul Harshaw.

“I’m pleased to have Paul as a team-mate in Rhodes,” said Jeane. “It was pretty tough being by myself in the Shetlands but at least the basketball and volleyball players came along to support me.

“Paul took part in the 2003 Games but finished last and I think he sees this as a chance to set the record straight.”

Both competitors will be overcoming personal battles in Rhodes with Jeane not long recovered from a skiing accident, while Paul was recently burnt in a mishap involving a cooker.

“I missed a lot of practice because of my accident and my form has not been good,” she said. “Paul has been badly burnt and will have to be careful in the sun and can’t wear shorts — we both have obstacles to face.

“I don’t imagine we’ll be amongst the medals but you never know, anything can happen on the day,” added Jeane who is a member of the National Archery Association of Bermuda.

Both athletes will spend a few days training in Athens, Greece, hoping to find their form prior to the Games, which run from June 30 until July 6.