The 2026 Butterfield Bermuda Championship, scheduled for June 12‑15 at the historic Island Course, is drawing attention from both local and international players as oddsmakers place several underdogs on the radar.

While the field features seasoned professionals such as former European Tour champion Rory McIlroy and rising star Lucy Conroy, bookmakers are giving unexpected boosts to a handful of lesser‑known golfers. Among them are Bermudian amateur David “Dave” Thompson, who shot a 64 in the recent Island Invitational, and American swing‑tech guru Matt Anders, who has been quietly honing his game on the island’s back nine.

Bermuda’s golf community has long celebrated the championship as a showcase for local talent. This year’s long‑shot status could provide a platform for the island’s emerging players to gain international exposure and potentially secure sponsorship deals. “It’s a chance for us to prove that we can compete against the best,” said Thompson at a recent practice round.

The event will also feature a pro‑am segment, attracting corporate sponsors and offering spectators a chance to play a round with a pro. Organizers anticipate strong attendance, with many hoping to witness an upset that could shift the conversation around the tournament’s competitive landscape.

As the championship approaches, both seasoned players and long‑shot hopefuls are gearing up for what promises to be a thrilling display of skill amid Bermuda’s picturesque setting.