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28 Apr 14
23:54
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Date Joined:
09 Sep 03
At Quail Hollow Club
George Cobb design, opened in 1962 and quickly established itself as a worthy host of big events.
Quail Hollow was the original site of the Kemper Open (1969-79), later hosting the World Seniors Invitational (1980-89) before Tom Fazio was brought in to redo greens and add yardage.
The PGA TOUR returned in 2003, and Quail Hollow will join the list of major championship venues in 2017 when it hosts the PGA Championship.
The final three-hole stretch, known as the "Green Mile," is considered one of the toughest finishes on the PGA TOUR.
Phil Mickelson, No. 9 in the world rankings, and 2010 winner Rory McIlroy join defending champ Derek Ernst in a roster that features 10 of the rankings’ top 30.
The lineup also includes reigning U.S. Open champion Justin Rose and predecessor Webb Simpson, a Quail Hollow resident........Four other entrants keep a home in Charlotte – Brendon de Jonge, Robert Karlsson, Martin Laird and Johnson Wagner.
Ernie Els returns to Quail Hollow for the first time since 2007. Two visits have yet to yield a top-30 finish.
… The field list shows a foursome of "Thirds" – Davis Love III, Charles Howell III, Billy Hurley III and sponsor exemption Harold Varner III.
• 72-HOLE RECORD: 272, Anthony Kim (2008).
• 18-HOLE RECORD: 62, Rory McIlroy (4th round, 2010).
• LAST YEAR: Ernst stunningly outpaced a stellar field for his first PGA TOUR victory, forcing a playoff with a kick-in birdie to end regulation and beating England’s David Lynn with another birdie on the first extra hole.
Phil Mickelson held a one-shot lead with three holes to play in cold, rainy conditions, but bogeyed Nos. 16 and 17 to fall off the pace.
Ernst finished a closing 2-under 70 by striping a 6-iron to 4 feet for birdie on No. 18, then ousted Lynn when he drained a 15-footer on the second trip through.
Before his arrival in Charlotte, Ernst had missed six of eight cuts in 2013 and his highest finish was 47th.
Mickelson makes his first start since missing the Masters cut, his first early exit from Augusta National since 1997.
Though winless at Quail Hollow, Lefty has seven top-10 finishes in 10 previous visits, including runner-up to McIlroy in 2010.
Ernst joins six other past champs with a chance to become the first multiple winner in the event’s 11-year history.
McIlroy came closest, falling in a three-man playoff to Fowler two years after his 2010 victory.
Simpson, whose home stands about a mile from the Quail Hollow clubhouse, tries again for a home-turf victory.
He held the 54-hole lead two years ago fading to a Sunday 73 left him one shot out of the playoff.
Four of Quail Hollow’s past six winners accomplished the feat under age 24.
McIlroy (2010) was 20 when he notched his first PGA TOUR win, Anthony Kim (2008) and Ernst won at age 22 and Rickie Fowler (2012) was 23.
None of the past four defending champions have been around on Sunday a year later.
Fowler was a Saturday MDF victim last year; the previous three missed the regular cut.
Barring a late WD, four players will keep their streak of not missing a start at Quail Hollow – Stuart Appleby, J.J. Henry, Howell and Rory Sabbatini.
George Cobb design, opened in 1962 and quickly established itself as a worthy host of big events.
Quail Hollow was the original site of the Kemper Open (1969-79), later hosting the World Seniors Invitational (1980-89) before Tom Fazio was brought in to redo greens and add yardage.
The PGA TOUR returned in 2003, and Quail Hollow will join the list of major championship venues in 2017 when it hosts the PGA Championship.
The final three-hole stretch, known as the "Green Mile," is considered one of the toughest finishes on the PGA TOUR.
Phil Mickelson, No. 9 in the world rankings, and 2010 winner Rory McIlroy join defending champ Derek Ernst in a roster that features 10 of the rankings’ top 30.
The lineup also includes reigning U.S. Open champion Justin Rose and predecessor Webb Simpson, a Quail Hollow resident........Four other entrants keep a home in Charlotte – Brendon de Jonge, Robert Karlsson, Martin Laird and Johnson Wagner.
Ernie Els returns to Quail Hollow for the first time since 2007. Two visits have yet to yield a top-30 finish.
… The field list shows a foursome of "Thirds" – Davis Love III, Charles Howell III, Billy Hurley III and sponsor exemption Harold Varner III.
• 72-HOLE RECORD: 272, Anthony Kim (2008).
• 18-HOLE RECORD: 62, Rory McIlroy (4th round, 2010).
• LAST YEAR: Ernst stunningly outpaced a stellar field for his first PGA TOUR victory, forcing a playoff with a kick-in birdie to end regulation and beating England’s David Lynn with another birdie on the first extra hole.
Phil Mickelson held a one-shot lead with three holes to play in cold, rainy conditions, but bogeyed Nos. 16 and 17 to fall off the pace.
Ernst finished a closing 2-under 70 by striping a 6-iron to 4 feet for birdie on No. 18, then ousted Lynn when he drained a 15-footer on the second trip through.
Before his arrival in Charlotte, Ernst had missed six of eight cuts in 2013 and his highest finish was 47th.
Mickelson makes his first start since missing the Masters cut, his first early exit from Augusta National since 1997.
Though winless at Quail Hollow, Lefty has seven top-10 finishes in 10 previous visits, including runner-up to McIlroy in 2010.
Ernst joins six other past champs with a chance to become the first multiple winner in the event’s 11-year history.
McIlroy came closest, falling in a three-man playoff to Fowler two years after his 2010 victory.
Simpson, whose home stands about a mile from the Quail Hollow clubhouse, tries again for a home-turf victory.
He held the 54-hole lead two years ago fading to a Sunday 73 left him one shot out of the playoff.
Four of Quail Hollow’s past six winners accomplished the feat under age 24.
McIlroy (2010) was 20 when he notched his first PGA TOUR win, Anthony Kim (2008) and Ernst won at age 22 and Rickie Fowler (2012) was 23.
None of the past four defending champions have been around on Sunday a year later.
Fowler was a Saturday MDF victim last year; the previous three missed the regular cut.
Barring a late WD, four players will keep their streak of not missing a start at Quail Hollow – Stuart Appleby, J.J. Henry, Howell and Rory Sabbatini.
Show More
2013 result at Quail Hollow
1
2 || David Lynn || -8 || 71 68 71 70 || 280 ||
3 || Phil Mickelson || -7 || 68 67 73 73 || 281 ||
T4 || Lee Westwood || -6 || 70 68 72 72 || 282 ||
T4 || Robert Karlsson || -6 || 69 72 69 72 || 282 ||
T6 || Kyle Stanley || -5 || 74 68 73 68 || 283 ||
T6 || Bo Van Pelt || -5 || 74 70 68 71 || 283 ||
T6 || Kevin Streelman || -5 || 68 72 71 72 || 283 ||
T6 || Ryan Moore || -5 || 67 75 68 73 || 283 ||
T10 || Ross Fisher || -4 || 70 71 73 70 || 284 ||
T10 || Charles Howell III || -4 || 72 72 69 71 || 284 ||
T10 || Rory McIlroy || -4 || 67 71 73 73 || 284 ||
T10 || Brian Harman || -4 || 70 70 71 73 || 284 ||
T10 || Nick Watney || -4 || 67 70 71 76 || 284 ||
T16 || Luke List || -3 || 71 75 71 68 || 285 ||
T16 || Henrik Norlander || -3 || 74 70 69 72 || 285 ||
T16 || D.H. Lee || -3 || 72 71 69 73 || 285 ||
T16 || Sergio Garcia || -3 || 72 68 72 73 || 285 ||
T16 || D.A. Points || -3 || 71 69 71 74 || 285 ||
T16 || George McNeill || -3 || 69 68 72 76 || 285 ||
1
| Derek Ernst | -8 | 67 71 72 70 | 280 |
2 || David Lynn || -8 || 71 68 71 70 || 280 ||
3 || Phil Mickelson || -7 || 68 67 73 73 || 281 ||
T4 || Lee Westwood || -6 || 70 68 72 72 || 282 ||
T4 || Robert Karlsson || -6 || 69 72 69 72 || 282 ||
T6 || Kyle Stanley || -5 || 74 68 73 68 || 283 ||
T6 || Bo Van Pelt || -5 || 74 70 68 71 || 283 ||
T6 || Kevin Streelman || -5 || 68 72 71 72 || 283 ||
T6 || Ryan Moore || -5 || 67 75 68 73 || 283 ||
T10 || Ross Fisher || -4 || 70 71 73 70 || 284 ||
T10 || Charles Howell III || -4 || 72 72 69 71 || 284 ||
T10 || Rory McIlroy || -4 || 67 71 73 73 || 284 ||
T10 || Brian Harman || -4 || 70 70 71 73 || 284 ||
T10 || Nick Watney || -4 || 67 70 71 76 || 284 ||
T16 || Luke List || -3 || 71 75 71 68 || 285 ||
T16 || Henrik Norlander || -3 || 74 70 69 72 || 285 ||
T16 || D.H. Lee || -3 || 72 71 69 73 || 285 ||
T16 || Sergio Garcia || -3 || 72 68 72 73 || 285 ||
T16 || D.A. Points || -3 || 71 69 71 74 || 285 ||
T16 || George McNeill || -3 || 69 68 72 76 || 285 ||
| 2013 result at Quail Hollow | ||||
| 1 | Derek Ernst | -8 | 67 71 72 70 | 280 |
| 2 | David Lynn | -8 | 71 68 71 70 | 280 |
| 3 | Phil Mickelson | -7 | 68 67 73 73 | 281 |
| T4 | Lee Westwood | -6 | 70 68 72 72 | 282 |
| T4 | Robert Karlsson | -6 | 69 72 69 72 | 282 |
| T6 | Kyle Stanley | -5 | 74 68 73 68 | 283 |
| T6 | Bo Van Pelt | -5 | 74 70 68 71 | 283 |
| T6 | Kevin Streelman | -5 | 68 72 71 72 | 283 |
| T6 | Ryan Moore | -5 | 67 75 68 73 | 283 |
| T10 | Ross Fisher | -4 | 70 71 73 70 | 284 |
| T10 | Charles Howell III | -4 | 72 72 69 71 | 284 |
| T10 | Rory McIlroy | -4 | 67 71 73 73 | 284 |
| T10 | Brian Harman | -4 | 70 70 71 73 | 284 |
| T10 | Nick Watney | -4 | 67 70 71 76 | 284 |
| T16 | Luke List | -3 | 71 75 71 68 | 285 |
| T16 | Henrik Norlander | -3 | 74 70 69 72 | 285 |
| T16 | D.H. Lee | -3 | 72 71 69 73 | 285 |
| T16 | Sergio Garcia | -3 | 72 68 72 73 | 285 |
| T16 | D.A. Points | -3 | 71 69 71 74 | 285 |
| T16 | George McNeill | -3 | 69 68 72 76 | 285 |
The golf course at Quail Hollow Club has a new look. It’s subtle in some spots and downright dramatic in others.
A two-phase course improvement project, the second of which began the Monday after last May’s Wells Fargo Championship concluded, wrapped up in late August.
“This is something we’re really excited about,” Quail Hollow President Johnny Harris said Thursday. “We’re doing this with an anticipation of an extended relationship that we think is forthcoming with Wells Fargo and the PGA Championship.”
The key changes to the course are centered on Quail Hollow’s “Green Mile” finishing holes and include a transition to MiniVerde Bermuda grass greens and a drastic change to the 16th hole.
“We took everything out and re-did it, we were so concerned about what happened in May,” said Harris. “Without the problems with the greens, we might have put it off.”
The putting surfaces were also constructed with gentler slopes, which Harris said is more suited to the new turf.
More than 90,000 pounds of dirt were used to rebuild the 16th hole, which now extends to the large lake that sits in the middle of the property. The hole now plays as a 505-yard par-4, sitting to the left of the original fairway. The fairway is now to the left of a large oak tree that was once the sight line for the left of the old fairway.
About one acre of the lake was filled in to form the new green, which is about 80 yards to the left of where it originally sat and 25 feet lower.
Other changes – all done under the supervision of course architect Tom Fazio – include the tee at the par-3 17th, which was moved to the right and now can play up to 217 yards. Also, the par-4 eighth hole will now play straight and is potentially a drive-able 300 yards for many pros.
He expects a five-year extension for the Wells Fargo Championship to be signed soon. It would keep the tournament at Quail Hollow through 2019, although the event will likely move to Eagle Pointe in 2017 when the PGA Championship is at Quail Hollow.
Harris said several pros – including Webb Simpson, Ben Martin, Charles Howell III, Brendon de Jonge and Robert Karlsson – have played Quail Hollow since the renovation. Johnson Wagner, a Charlotte resident and PGA player, was on the course Thursday.
A two-phase course improvement project, the second of which began the Monday after last May’s Wells Fargo Championship concluded, wrapped up in late August.
“This is something we’re really excited about,” Quail Hollow President Johnny Harris said Thursday. “We’re doing this with an anticipation of an extended relationship that we think is forthcoming with Wells Fargo and the PGA Championship.”
The key changes to the course are centered on Quail Hollow’s “Green Mile” finishing holes and include a transition to MiniVerde Bermuda grass greens and a drastic change to the 16th hole.
“We took everything out and re-did it, we were so concerned about what happened in May,” said Harris. “Without the problems with the greens, we might have put it off.”
The putting surfaces were also constructed with gentler slopes, which Harris said is more suited to the new turf.
More than 90,000 pounds of dirt were used to rebuild the 16th hole, which now extends to the large lake that sits in the middle of the property. The hole now plays as a 505-yard par-4, sitting to the left of the original fairway. The fairway is now to the left of a large oak tree that was once the sight line for the left of the old fairway.
About one acre of the lake was filled in to form the new green, which is about 80 yards to the left of where it originally sat and 25 feet lower.
Other changes – all done under the supervision of course architect Tom Fazio – include the tee at the par-3 17th, which was moved to the right and now can play up to 217 yards. Also, the par-4 eighth hole will now play straight and is potentially a drive-able 300 yards for many pros.
He expects a five-year extension for the Wells Fargo Championship to be signed soon. It would keep the tournament at Quail Hollow through 2019, although the event will likely move to Eagle Pointe in 2017 when the PGA Championship is at Quail Hollow.
Harris said several pros – including Webb Simpson, Ben Martin, Charles Howell III, Brendon de Jonge and Robert Karlsson – have played Quail Hollow since the renovation. Johnson Wagner, a Charlotte resident and PGA player, was on the course Thursday.
Phil 16 - Walker 33 - Na 66 - Streelman 80 - Van Pelt 80 - 6places PP
Lucas Glover settled for a 3-over-par 39-36=75 in the final round of the Zurich Classic of New Orleans to end his tournament at 2-under 286.
The story of Glover's round and week was the flat stick.
His effort on the par-5 seventh in the finale pretty much sums it up. After chipping his eagle attempt to six feet, he promptly took four putts and swallowed a double-bogey 7. Coincidentally, he began his tournament Thursday on the par-4 10th with an approach to six feet before suffering a three-putt bogey.
For the week, Glover missed 11 putts inside seven feet. He will occasionally roll in a lengthy birdie or par save, like a 16'9" birdie on eight, an 11'6 birdie on 12 and an 18'10" par at 17 today, but the focus just isn't there on the short ones.
His ball-striking stats aren't all that different from when he played in the Presidents Cup in 2007 and 2009, also winning the U.S. Open in 2009, but he entered this tournament 196th in strokes gained-putting and certainly won't be moving up in that category.
For comparison, he began the week 31st in ball-striking, whereas he was 26th in 2007 and 37th in 2009.
The story of Glover's round and week was the flat stick.
His effort on the par-5 seventh in the finale pretty much sums it up. After chipping his eagle attempt to six feet, he promptly took four putts and swallowed a double-bogey 7. Coincidentally, he began his tournament Thursday on the par-4 10th with an approach to six feet before suffering a three-putt bogey.
For the week, Glover missed 11 putts inside seven feet. He will occasionally roll in a lengthy birdie or par save, like a 16'9" birdie on eight, an 11'6 birdie on 12 and an 18'10" par at 17 today, but the focus just isn't there on the short ones.
His ball-striking stats aren't all that different from when he played in the Presidents Cup in 2007 and 2009, also winning the U.S. Open in 2009, but he entered this tournament 196th in strokes gained-putting and certainly won't be moving up in that category.
For comparison, he began the week 31st in ball-striking, whereas he was 26th in 2007 and 37th in 2009.
Well fargo selections,
1st selection Phil Mickelson hasn't done much so far this year,going to give him one more chance on a course were he has showing a liking too,finished 2nd here last year,
2nd selection Justin Rose after a slow start after the injury hes been coming into form,a slow start last week,finished well nearly getting into the placed money,
Now onto Europe were its a very weak field going for two against the field,
1st selection is Fleetwood who had a very good week last week,hopefully the good form continues,
2nd selection is Wiesberger another guy who showed some form aswell last week finishing a joint 2nd with Fleetwood,also won this event back in 2012,so with some luck will be coming into this week full of confidence,
Selections
Phil Mickelson e/w 16/1 6 places,
Justin Rose e/w 20/1 6 places,
Fleetwood e/w 25/1,
Wiesberger e/w 16/1,
Also done permed e/w doubles,best of luck this week lads,
1st selection Phil Mickelson hasn't done much so far this year,going to give him one more chance on a course were he has showing a liking too,finished 2nd here last year,
2nd selection Justin Rose after a slow start after the injury hes been coming into form,a slow start last week,finished well nearly getting into the placed money,
Now onto Europe were its a very weak field going for two against the field,
1st selection is Fleetwood who had a very good week last week,hopefully the good form continues,
2nd selection is Wiesberger another guy who showed some form aswell last week finishing a joint 2nd with Fleetwood,also won this event back in 2012,so with some luck will be coming into this week full of confidence,
Selections
Phil Mickelson e/w 16/1 6 places,
Justin Rose e/w 20/1 6 places,
Fleetwood e/w 25/1,
Wiesberger e/w 16/1,
Also done permed e/w doubles,best of luck this week lads,
Catch Me ifyoucan • April 26, 2014 1:17 PM BST
We are privileged to be living in the Age of O’Sullivan.
WE're also lucky to be living in the Age of RONALDO !
We are privileged to be living in the Age of O’Sullivan.
WE're also lucky to be living in the Age of RONALDO !
4 selections in the states this week for me:
Rory Mcilroy 15/2
First time I've backed Rory since his collapse @ Augusta a few years ago but think he is a very worthy fav this week. In good form this season and is a former winner here, Rory should be very well suited by the heavy rain which has hit the course this week and will make driving distance all the more important
Jason Kokrak 66/1
Another player whom the heavy rain will suit as he is a massive hitter. In good form this season with a good few top 20's and sure to go well.
Kevin Na 66/1
In excellent form this year with 4 top 10's, Na may lack a bit of distance off the tee but is no.1 for scrambling which is a key stat around here. Also plays well on difficult courses of which this is one.
Brendan Steele 150/1
Ticks all the boxes needed for this event being top 50 for driving distance, GIR's and scrambling, this is a course that should suit Steele well. Form not brilliant this year but has fared best at more difficult course such as Torry Pines and Bay Hill.
Good Luck all.
Rory Mcilroy 15/2
First time I've backed Rory since his collapse @ Augusta a few years ago but think he is a very worthy fav this week. In good form this season and is a former winner here, Rory should be very well suited by the heavy rain which has hit the course this week and will make driving distance all the more important
Jason Kokrak 66/1
Another player whom the heavy rain will suit as he is a massive hitter. In good form this season with a good few top 20's and sure to go well.
Kevin Na 66/1
In excellent form this year with 4 top 10's, Na may lack a bit of distance off the tee but is no.1 for scrambling which is a key stat around here. Also plays well on difficult courses of which this is one.
Brendan Steele 150/1
Ticks all the boxes needed for this event being top 50 for driving distance, GIR's and scrambling, this is a course that should suit Steele well. Form not brilliant this year but has fared best at more difficult course such as Torry Pines and Bay Hill.
Good Luck all.
This year it'll feel a little different,
18 greens have been relaid with Bermuda grass
while holes eight and 16 are among those that have changed markedly with shifting of fairways and sight-lines from the tee.
Six of the 11 champions here are major winners and there's a feeling that it's a test made for only the very best in the game.
As for what it takes to succeed here, taking advantage of the par-fives helps but it's the testing par-fours which really sort the field out. Ernst, Fowler and McIlroy all led the field in par-four performance and all did so by hitting greens; albeit these big targets offer some form of respite to the entire field in that regard.
The other notable thread through champions is the ability to drive the ball long and straight.
Ernst was 11th in distance and 14th in accuracy; Fowler 13th and second; McIlroy eighth and 27th and O'Hair seventh and 20th.
That Ernst currently leads the total driving stats for this season despite generally having struggled is further evidence that we need someone who excels off the tee.
All of which adds to my confidence that this is the week which sees Rory McIlroy remind us that he's the best player in world golf when he's at the top of his game.
So far this year, Rory eight top-25 finishes from eight starts will all have helped recreate the confidence he established when dominating the sport in 2012, and he's surely just one win away from a return to that sort of level.
There's probably no better place for him to put the pieces together than here at Quail Hollow, a course he recently ranked as one of his 10 favourites on the PGA Tour, saying: "The home of my first win on U.S. soil, Quail Hollow is a beautiful course and a tremendous golfing challenge. For me, it is one of the best in the southeastern United States."
It's no surprises that McIlroy loves the place. Long and with four par-fives, it's the type on which he's always thrived and bears close resemblance to Congressional Country Club, where he produced a dominant display to win the 2011 US Open.
It was here at Quail Hollow, though, where McIlroy first showed what he's really capable off.
A course record 62 in the final round of the 2010 renewal saw him storm to an imperious victory and with major champions among those he had to pass and then hold off on the final day, it was one which confirmed him as the potential superstar of his generation.
I see no great value in treading over old ground as to what went wrong last year, because clearly that's behind him.
Crucially, he at last has a driver he's happy with and any interview you read with him from this season features a comment about how long and straight he's hitting the ball, and how he feels that's always going to be key to his success.
In terms of par-four performance, Rory's stats are back up with the level he produced in both the season of his Quail Hollow win and in 2012;
he currently ranks fourth in birdie or better and 11th in performance, as well as third in overall birdie average and fourth in scoring.
McIlroy's total driving stats might not say so right now but for my money he's the best driver of a golf ball on the planet, and he arrives here fresh and ready after his best ever finishing position at Augusta, which in turn followed his best ever finishing position at the Shell Houston Open.
We know he can win off a break - he'd been off since a missed cut at Augusta when winning this title - and that he was 10th here last season despite playing poorly throughout the year.
That performance saw him lead the field in total driving and greens hit and if he does so again, these new surfaces should help him make the putts this time around.
Throw in a play-off second to Fowler in 2012 in which he ranked sixth for greens hit and you have further confirmation, were it needed, that this really is his playground.
Of course, it doesn't take much to make a case for Rory at one of his favourite courses while he's playing well. But when I saw a field lacking all of the current top-eight ranked players in the world, with a second-favourite in Mickelson who isn't playing at all well, with a third favourite in Westwood who doesn't win often in America and a fourth-favourite in Justin Rose who has no sort of form at the course, it seemed clear to me that if McIlroy plays close to his best he should win.
7's and with six places with PP I make him an outstanding each-way bet and will be extremely disappointed if he doesn't hit the frame.
Naturally, there are other players who catch the eye to an extent here and there's some temptation to add to the outright staking plan. Had Rickie Fowler played well last week he'd be fifth favourite for this and nowhere near 33/1, while Webb Simpson is out at 66/1 from 20s last year and will hope to turn around his form in this home game.
Russell Henley is another who has drifted out again after one bad week and his career really started to roll when he began working with the pro at Quail Hollow, and you can add the likes of Ryan Moore and Gary Woodland into the mix too.
But ultimately the only other player I want on-side is Jason Kokrak and I'm going to head to the top-20 and top American markets.
Big-hitting Kokrak - who lives just down the road from Quail Hollow - looks a player who could join the long list of maiden winners some time soon.
I felt he'd have had a great chance last week, but perhaps his decision not to play in Louisiana was made to strengthen his credentials in a tournament he's desperate to do well in.
Last year, Kokrak sat inside the top 10 after every round bar the last one, which saw him bomb out completely.
But those 54 holes are enough evidence that this long par 72 will suit and further encouragement is taken from his subsequent third at Congressional in the AT&T National.
Whether he can go on and win here, I'm not sure and I don't feel that 66/1 5 places Spoils represents great value in that regard.
However, in 39 events since the start of the 2013 season he's produced 14 top-20 finishes, and it's noticeable how often he finishes outside of the frame but inside the top 20 or so.
© SL
18 greens have been relaid with Bermuda grass
while holes eight and 16 are among those that have changed markedly with shifting of fairways and sight-lines from the tee.
Six of the 11 champions here are major winners and there's a feeling that it's a test made for only the very best in the game.
As for what it takes to succeed here, taking advantage of the par-fives helps but it's the testing par-fours which really sort the field out. Ernst, Fowler and McIlroy all led the field in par-four performance and all did so by hitting greens; albeit these big targets offer some form of respite to the entire field in that regard.
The other notable thread through champions is the ability to drive the ball long and straight.
Ernst was 11th in distance and 14th in accuracy; Fowler 13th and second; McIlroy eighth and 27th and O'Hair seventh and 20th.
That Ernst currently leads the total driving stats for this season despite generally having struggled is further evidence that we need someone who excels off the tee.
All of which adds to my confidence that this is the week which sees Rory McIlroy remind us that he's the best player in world golf when he's at the top of his game.
So far this year, Rory eight top-25 finishes from eight starts will all have helped recreate the confidence he established when dominating the sport in 2012, and he's surely just one win away from a return to that sort of level.
There's probably no better place for him to put the pieces together than here at Quail Hollow, a course he recently ranked as one of his 10 favourites on the PGA Tour, saying: "The home of my first win on U.S. soil, Quail Hollow is a beautiful course and a tremendous golfing challenge. For me, it is one of the best in the southeastern United States."
It's no surprises that McIlroy loves the place. Long and with four par-fives, it's the type on which he's always thrived and bears close resemblance to Congressional Country Club, where he produced a dominant display to win the 2011 US Open.
It was here at Quail Hollow, though, where McIlroy first showed what he's really capable off.
A course record 62 in the final round of the 2010 renewal saw him storm to an imperious victory and with major champions among those he had to pass and then hold off on the final day, it was one which confirmed him as the potential superstar of his generation.
I see no great value in treading over old ground as to what went wrong last year, because clearly that's behind him.
Crucially, he at last has a driver he's happy with and any interview you read with him from this season features a comment about how long and straight he's hitting the ball, and how he feels that's always going to be key to his success.
In terms of par-four performance, Rory's stats are back up with the level he produced in both the season of his Quail Hollow win and in 2012;
he currently ranks fourth in birdie or better and 11th in performance, as well as third in overall birdie average and fourth in scoring.
McIlroy's total driving stats might not say so right now but for my money he's the best driver of a golf ball on the planet, and he arrives here fresh and ready after his best ever finishing position at Augusta, which in turn followed his best ever finishing position at the Shell Houston Open.
We know he can win off a break - he'd been off since a missed cut at Augusta when winning this title - and that he was 10th here last season despite playing poorly throughout the year.
That performance saw him lead the field in total driving and greens hit and if he does so again, these new surfaces should help him make the putts this time around.
Throw in a play-off second to Fowler in 2012 in which he ranked sixth for greens hit and you have further confirmation, were it needed, that this really is his playground.
Of course, it doesn't take much to make a case for Rory at one of his favourite courses while he's playing well. But when I saw a field lacking all of the current top-eight ranked players in the world, with a second-favourite in Mickelson who isn't playing at all well, with a third favourite in Westwood who doesn't win often in America and a fourth-favourite in Justin Rose who has no sort of form at the course, it seemed clear to me that if McIlroy plays close to his best he should win.
7's and with six places with PP I make him an outstanding each-way bet and will be extremely disappointed if he doesn't hit the frame.
Naturally, there are other players who catch the eye to an extent here and there's some temptation to add to the outright staking plan. Had Rickie Fowler played well last week he'd be fifth favourite for this and nowhere near 33/1, while Webb Simpson is out at 66/1 from 20s last year and will hope to turn around his form in this home game.
Russell Henley is another who has drifted out again after one bad week and his career really started to roll when he began working with the pro at Quail Hollow, and you can add the likes of Ryan Moore and Gary Woodland into the mix too.
But ultimately the only other player I want on-side is Jason Kokrak and I'm going to head to the top-20 and top American markets.
Big-hitting Kokrak - who lives just down the road from Quail Hollow - looks a player who could join the long list of maiden winners some time soon.
I felt he'd have had a great chance last week, but perhaps his decision not to play in Louisiana was made to strengthen his credentials in a tournament he's desperate to do well in.
Last year, Kokrak sat inside the top 10 after every round bar the last one, which saw him bomb out completely.
But those 54 holes are enough evidence that this long par 72 will suit and further encouragement is taken from his subsequent third at Congressional in the AT&T National.
Whether he can go on and win here, I'm not sure and I don't feel that 66/1 5 places Spoils represents great value in that regard.
However, in 39 events since the start of the 2013 season he's produced 14 top-20 finishes, and it's noticeable how often he finishes outside of the frame but inside the top 20 or so.
© SL
Heavy showers and thunderstorms remain in the Charlotte forecast, but the area was sitting high and dry late Tuesday afternoon – nearly 24 hours after the severe weather had been predicted to begin.
A tornado watch has been issued into the evening hours for areas east of Charlotte, including Anson, Stanly, Richmond and Montgomery counties.
But as has been the case all day, weather radar is showing little activity.
It is not clear when – or even if – severe weather will affect the Charlotte region.
The National Weather Service office in Greer, S.C., said Tuesday afternoon that it still expects storm activity to develop Tuesday evening.
Additional heavy storms are forecast for Wednesday.
More on
http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2014/04/29/4873269/cool-air-pocket-protects...
A tornado watch has been issued into the evening hours for areas east of Charlotte, including Anson, Stanly, Richmond and Montgomery counties.
But as has been the case all day, weather radar is showing little activity.
It is not clear when – or even if – severe weather will affect the Charlotte region.
The National Weather Service office in Greer, S.C., said Tuesday afternoon that it still expects storm activity to develop Tuesday evening.
Additional heavy storms are forecast for Wednesday.
More on
http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2014/04/29/4873269/cool-air-pocket-protects...
Any better 500/1 shots (PP - 6 places) than Frank Lickliter ?
Charleston’s Dustin Bray (also 500/1) is one of four players who qualified for the Wells Fargo Championship on Monday at Charlotte’s Carolina Golf Clubs.
Bray shot an 8-under 62 and is joined by Frank Lickliter and Hunter Green – who tied for second one stroke back – and Fielding Brewbaker.
Brewbaker won a three-player playoff for the fourth spot.
Lickliter, 43, a former top 50 player, is playing his third PGA Tour event of the year. Tour career earnings of $11,812,529. wow !
• Three players were added to the Wells Fargo Field on Monday.
Troy Merritt and Bud Cauley will play on sponsor’s exemptions and Robert Streb is in by virtue of his top-10 finish at last week’s Zurich Classic in New Orleans.
Also, Briny Baird withdrew from the tournament.
Charleston’s Dustin Bray (also 500/1) is one of four players who qualified for the Wells Fargo Championship on Monday at Charlotte’s Carolina Golf Clubs.
Bray shot an 8-under 62 and is joined by Frank Lickliter and Hunter Green – who tied for second one stroke back – and Fielding Brewbaker.
Brewbaker won a three-player playoff for the fourth spot.
Lickliter, 43, a former top 50 player, is playing his third PGA Tour event of the year. Tour career earnings of $11,812,529. wow !
• Three players were added to the Wells Fargo Field on Monday.
Troy Merritt and Bud Cauley will play on sponsor’s exemptions and Robert Streb is in by virtue of his top-10 finish at last week’s Zurich Classic in New Orleans.
Also, Briny Baird withdrew from the tournament.
Streb 125/1 5 places Spoils added with Licky (only 100 in PP) - 2 last week - Par 4 Birdie or Better Leaders 5th - Scrambling 10th - 7 from 7 cuts in 2014.
Short and Sweet this week, as up to my tits in work all week.
To my eye, Phil Mickleson at 16s e.w(6 places) is one of the bets of the year. Phil consistently contends around here, and though there have been some course changes, there is no reason to believe it will hinder him. Yes, he missed the cut at his beloved Augusta, but he had 3 7s there. Three bad holes put him out, not consistent bad play. He played well. 9 shots to the field in 3 holes is a hell of a lot, and even if he lost 4 shots on them holes, he would have been right in it, and no doubt finished top ten like Rory.
Phil should never be 16s in these regulation events, without Tiger, on a course he obviously performs well on. Fill your boots!!
Also went with Jonas Blixt, Nick Watney, Lucas Glover and Sean O' Hair.
Rory and Westwood have obvious chances, but I prefer Phils prospects. I would have backed WW at the early 22s or even 20s, but will leave the 16s.
2.5pts e.w Phil Mickleson 16-1(6 places)
.55pt e.w Jonas Blixt 50-1(6 places)
.4pt e.w Nick Watney 70-1 (6 places)
.2pt e.w Lucas Glover 150-1
.15pt e.w Sean O'Hair 200-1
Best of Luck all
Hopefully Phil can top up the winnings on Ronnie
Running Total.....+40.35pts
To my eye, Phil Mickleson at 16s e.w(6 places) is one of the bets of the year. Phil consistently contends around here, and though there have been some course changes, there is no reason to believe it will hinder him. Yes, he missed the cut at his beloved Augusta, but he had 3 7s there. Three bad holes put him out, not consistent bad play. He played well. 9 shots to the field in 3 holes is a hell of a lot, and even if he lost 4 shots on them holes, he would have been right in it, and no doubt finished top ten like Rory.
Phil should never be 16s in these regulation events, without Tiger, on a course he obviously performs well on. Fill your boots!!
Also went with Jonas Blixt, Nick Watney, Lucas Glover and Sean O' Hair.
Rory and Westwood have obvious chances, but I prefer Phils prospects. I would have backed WW at the early 22s or even 20s, but will leave the 16s.
2.5pts e.w Phil Mickleson 16-1(6 places)
.55pt e.w Jonas Blixt 50-1(6 places)
.4pt e.w Nick Watney 70-1 (6 places)
.2pt e.w Lucas Glover 150-1
.15pt e.w Sean O'Hair 200-1
Best of Luck all
Hopefully Phil can top up the winnings on Ronnie
Running Total.....+40.35pts
The 3 balls in Irish Time.......any interest ?
| 12:00 | Gonzalo F-Castano (17/10) | Brian Stuard (7/4) | James Hahn (5/2) |
| 12:00 | David Hearn (8/5) | Jason Bohn (21/10) | James Driscoll (11/5) |
| 12:30 | Angel Cabrera (7/4) | John Merrick (2) | Kyle Stanley (2) |
| 12:30 | Kevin Streelman (11/8) | Lucas Glover (7/4) | Mark Wilson (3) |
| 12:40 | Martin Kaymer (13/8) | Jonathan Byrd (9/4) | Jhonattan Vegas (11/4) |
| 12:50 | Hunter Mahan (13/8) | Kevin Na (2) | Chesson Hadley (11/5) |
| 12:50 | Jimmy Walker (7/4) | Bill Haas (2) | Seung-Yul Noh (9/4) |
| 13:00 | Rory McIlroy (11/10) | Rickie Fowler (5/2) | Jonas Blixt (16/5) |
| 13:00 | Gary Woodland (7/4) | Matt Jones (15/8) | Charles Howell (2) |
| 13:10 | Stewart Cink (5/4) | Davis Love (19/10) | Darren Clarke (3) |
| 13:10 | Sang Moon Bae (13/8) | Robert Allenby (7/4) | Charlie Beljan (9/4) |
| 13:20 | Daniel Summerhays (13/8) | Brendon Todd (7/4) | Charlie Wi (11/4) |
| 13:30 | J B Holmes (6/4) | Hideki Matasuyama (7/4) | Camilo Villegas (5/2) |
| 13:30 | Robert Karlsson (6/4) | Nicholas Thompson (2) | Jason Gore (9/4) |
| 13:40 | Danny Lee (7/4) | Morgan Hoffman (7/4) | Brian Davis (2) |
| 13:40 | Jamie Donaldson (7/5) | Pat Perez (6/4) | Troy Matteson (7/2) |
| 17:45 | Will MacKenzie (17/10) | Brian Harman (7/4) | Martin Flores (11/4) |
| 17:55 | Rory Sabbatini (11/8) | Tommy Gainey (21/10) | Brian Gay (12/5) |
| 18:05 | Carl Pettersson (7/4) | Stuart Appleby (9/5) | Geoff Ogilvy (11/5) |
| 18:15 | Jim Furyk (11/10) | Scott Brown (5/2) | Scott Stallings (3) |
| 18:15 | Webb Simpson (13/8) | Zach Johnson (13/8) | Ernie Els (11/4) |
| 18:25 | Phil Mickelson (7/4) | Lee Westwood (15/8) | Justin Rose (2) |
| 18:25 | Ryan Moore (13/8) | Chris Kirk (21/10) | Russell Henley (9/4) |
| 18:35 | K J Choi (11/8) | Retief Goosen (6/4) | Derek Ernst (7/2) |
| 18:35 | Brendan Steele (13/8) | Martin Laird (7/4) | J J Henry (5/2) |
| 18:45 | Padraig Harrington (15/8) | Thorbjorn Olesen (15/8) | Trevor Immelman (9/4) |
| 18:55 | Brendon De Jonge (9/5) | Nicolas Colsaerts (2) | William McGirt (2) |
Hopefully he par's the last,in the bunker from his tee shot tho,
Pod to -3, then goes double bogey, bogey to finish. I could strangle the bloke. 
He simply cannot finish off a round anymore.
He simply cannot finish off a round anymore.
Truly exasperating -and ironic in that he actually played the par 5s well for once.
Rory performing to type.....big weekend round when out of contention.
Cracking round from Phil. Shame he went on the sauce on Thursday night, and played like am 18 handicapper on Friday!! Event would be over if he put in his average round around here on Fri.
Final two ball tomorrow doesn't look too solid, Phil should be fav as it stands, hopefully he can bring the bacon home.
Final two ball tomorrow doesn't look too solid, Phil should be fav as it stands, hopefully he can bring the bacon home.
Hopefully my two against the field does well today,hopefully phil does it will make three of us collect,ye catch -15 0r 16 will be the winning score,cant see over -16 been the mark,
Loaded up - both barrels again - on Phil.......5/2 on the nose !
Phil 16 - Walker 33 - Na 66 - Streelman 80 - Van Pelt 80 - 6places PP.....
Looking for low rounds from Na and Streelman for the e/w........and also Streb (100/1 e/w).
Lickliter, Blixt, Walker and Van Pelt missed the cut.
Looking for low rounds from Na and Streelman for the e/w........and also Streb (100/1 e/w).
Lickliter, Blixt, Walker and Van Pelt missed the cut.
Streb 125/1 5 places Spoils added sorry 125/1 but 5 places
Threw a few quid on him at 14s to go bogey free. It wouldn't scream value, but he just had the ball under so much control yesterday. Thought it was dead after the opening tee shot!!
Remote control getting a pounding today!!
Remote control getting a pounding today!!
Follow ye with Phil tonight (5/2) Holmes ought to drop here.
Selby missed a good chance to get a bit of an undeserved tie.
Selby missed a good chance to get a bit of an undeserved tie.
Ya, Selby was awful, and Ronnie was making his way down to his level after a blistering start. Ron kept the head well though. I cant see where Selby is going to win enough frames to really pressure him.
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