marquees as gale force winds sent them sprawling across the National Sports Club grounds on the eve of this year's big tournament.

But that was the only hiccup as the countdown continued to an annual event which has grown into one of Bermuda's most popular and one of world rugby's most anticipated.

Despite a much-changed New Zealand All Blacks side, missing many regulars including charismatic giant Andy Haden, this year's festival still brings in some of the sport's most recognised names -- none moreso than French genius Philippe Sella and `Great Scot' Gavin Hastings.

And both will step out tomorrow as the Classic kicks off with last year's surprise finalists Argentina taking on the star-studded French, and Hastings leading the Classic Lions -- the defending champions -- against a USA team who many feel shouldn't be underestimated.

Monday's a rest day before the All Blacks clash with Canada and Bermuda take on South Africa in Tuesday's double-header with the semi-finals to follow on Wednesday and Thursday.

Thirty six year-old Sella, the world's most capped player with an amazing 111 national team appearances, will be the centre of attention as France, arguably this year's pre-tournament favourites, meet the Pumas.

But Sella, who played in all three World Cups before joining London club Saracens as a professional, will be surrounded by numerous team-mates who have also made their presence felt on the world stage.

Lock Jean Condom played 61 times for his country, hooker Louis Armary boasts 47 caps, and locks Dominique Erbani (46 caps) and Francis Haget (40) all combine to make the French the most experienced outfit in this year's Classic.

But they'll still be wary of an Argentine side who last year shocked New Zealand in the semi-finals before bowing to the Classic Lions 35-10 in the final.

Scrumhalf Martin Yanguela and outhalf Rafael Madero are two of the Pumas worth watching, although the entire squad has plenty of international experience.

With Hastings -- scorer of more points in international rugby (667) than anyone else -- at the helm, supported by the likes of Welshman JPR Williams (55 caps), Ireland's John O'Driscoll (26) and fellow Scotsman Keith Robertson (44), the Lions, on paper at least, look too strong for Team America.

But after being crushed in their opening match by the All Blacks last year, the Americans recovered to win the plate event.

And they won't be any pushover this time around.

Tomorrow's action starts with mini tag rugby at 1.00 p.m. followed by Argentina against France at 2.00 p.m. and the Lions against USA at 3.30 p.m.

The Scottish Classic players will get together with Mariners Rugby Club and friends to play a fun match at National Sports Club on Monday, starting at 5.30 p.m. The game is being held in honour of former Mariners captain Lindsay Mailer and stalwart Classic supporter Willie McCracken, both of whom passed away during the last year.