How it all began

Tee Time, The First Tournament

In 1993, Clement Talbot, J.P. wanted to mark the occasion of his father's birthday with a special event. When a friend suggested organising a social golf outing, it was an easy task to assemble a group of his father's old friends and colleagues, many from the hotel and hospitality industry, to participate in the match and celebrate Ross's birthday.

Twenty-eight participants joined in the tournament at Castle Harbour Golf Club and later attended a private party at the home of Clement Talbot. In honour of their friend "Blackie", who to many exemplified the Bermudian spirit, the celebrants generously donated funds, in addition to their green fees and $500 was collected for charity. The day was deemed such a success that it was decided to hold the event again the following year, this time with the express purpose of raising money for charity.

A Happy Tradition

Since that modest beginning in 1993, the Ross "Blackie" Talbot Charity Classic has become a fixture on the annual fund-raising calendar of Bermuda. Clement Talbot, Community and Government Liaison Manager, HSBC, continues to oversee this tournament honouring his father.

Sadly, "Blackie" passed away on November 23rd, 2000 and Bermuda lost one of its truly great gentlemen.  Besides Clement in Bermuda, "Blackie" left Melvyn and Bryan and five grandchildren who reside in Canada, and one daughter Sherry Talbot who resides in Bermuda, and most importantly, he left the mother of his children and a very dear partner Mrs. Marguerite Talbot.

2008 marks the 16th year of the Tournament's history. It is our hope to match last year's fundraising goal of $350,000.

2010 marks the 18th year of the tournament and it is our hope this year to raise in excess of $200,000 for our selected Charities.

Since its beginning the charity has raised in excess of $2,500,000 for over 75 Bermudian charities.