The Open Championship 2009

July 10 2009 | Comments off

The Open Championship is back at Turnberry, one of the most beautiful links in the world.  Fifteen years have passed since Nick Price stole the Claret Jug from the grasp of Swede Jasper Parnevik with rounds of 69-66-67-66. Greg Norman won his first of two Opens at Turnberry in 1986 and one of the most exciting Open’s of all time was won by Tom Watson in 1977 by a single shot over Jack Nicklaus. If the past three Championships played at Turnberry are any indication, then this year’s event promises excitement.

The course has been lengthened 250 yards to play 7200 yards for this year’s Open.  I am sure the weather will play a big part again this year as the course is played along the coast and severe storms are a regular occurrence.  Only 65 bunkers come into play, the fewest of any of the Open venues, and the greens are some of the best surfaces in links golf so I think the course suits the non-Europeans the most.

Tiger starts as favourite once again surprise, surprise. I believe he will win his 4th Open title and 15th major, as his game is back in top class shape. The only slippery stone in his way could be the greens if the weather turns sour like at the US Open, they may become soft and bumpy which I doubt could happen. Tiger dislikes wet, soft, bumpy greens immensely.

Unfortunately we will not see big Phil this year as he will stay home with his lovely wife Amy as she recovers from breast cancer.  Padraig Harrington goes for the three-peat but his form of late pretty much cancels out any opportunity.  I like Hunter Mahan’s chances as he has played some wonderful golf lately and was highly unlucky not to win The US Open at Bethpage last month.  This course could suit Kenny Perry as well, with his driving and putting in great form. What a story that would be if he could make up for his final two holes collapse at this years Masters!

All in all we are in for an exciting week at Turnberry Scotland for the playing of the 138th Open.  Tune in to TNT for our coverage.

Comments

Live Comment Preview

Discuss this Article

We reserve the right to delete inappropriate comments.

Commenting is not available in this section entry.