The British Open is by far the most "truest" and oldest of the majors, in that it brings golfers back to the roots of the game. It was first played back in 1860 (for us Canadians out there, that's seven years before Canada was even established as a country) and the field consisted of just eight professionals at the time. They played three rounds in a single day at Prestwick Golf Club (a 12-hole club at the time). The winner would receive not a trophy, but the Challenge Belt, worn around the waist of the champion. By 1873, the famous Claret Jug was presented to the winner instead and it's been that way ever since. The tradition of playing the British Open on a traditional links course has also remained and today several courses make up the yearly rotation.
The Old Course at St. Andrews is the birthplace of golf; it's the place where the first round was ever played back in the early 1400's. To say it's greatly influenced golf as we know it today is an understatement. For example, the current 18-hole layout of golf courses was first seen here. This year will mark the 29th time that the Old Course has hosted the British Open and as of now sits on a 5-year rotation. Golfers will be playing golf in its rawest form this week, just like in 1860. Be sure to look out for the typical links features that all have their roots at the Old Course this week, like deep bunkers, rolling fairways, gorse, etc.
The field this week is one of the most diverse in golf. We have older players who may not necessarily contend this week but will reminisce of their times playing St. Andrews and in the British Open. We have amateurs who will be looking to make a name for themselves. And of course we have the regular Tour players. This is also a special tournament for Tom Watson. The 5-time British Open champion will be making his last British Open appearance this week, at age 65, 32 years after his last British Open win. Just like for the US Open, my picks this week were hard to make, but here they are:
1) Tommy Fleetwood
2) Dustin Johnson
3) Rickie Fowler
Let's start with Tommy. He's a guru when it comes to the Old Course, despite his young age. Between his last eight rounds at St. Andrews (for the Alfred Dunhil Links Championship) he's 37-under par. In his last round there he shot a course record 62. He really knows how to play this course and that's an asset this week. For Dustin, his play at Chambers Bay shows his game is accurate enough to succeed on links course. His length will also give him an advantage this week. Finally, Rickie's coming off a win last week at the Scottish Open. Here's hoping he can pull off a Phil Mickelson and with the British Open as well.
Play kicks off early Thursday morning on this side of the Atlantic. Since it's a major, we'll be having daily coverage of the British Open. Be sure to check it out.
Also, comment below with your picks this week...
-Nick
Toronto Golf Reviews
Tommy Fleetwood is our top pick this week at St. Andrews
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