Finally it has arrived...A golf and sporting event like no other...The greatest show on earth...The Masters!
I just love The Masters.Nothing about it has changed since I was a young lad watching it with my parents.Everything about it is so iconic,from the drive down Magnolia Lane towards the whitewashed clubhouse,to the course where each hole is named after the tree or shrub with which it has become associated,features on the course such as Eisenhower tree,Ike's Pond,Hogan Bridge,Rae's Creek,caddie's in white jumpsuits,Azalea's in full bloom and of course Amen Corner,a stretch of holes(11,12,13)that can make or break your chances of donning the green jacket(Just ask Rory).
The course itself is a par72 and 7435 yards long.You used to be able to spray a drive here and there but they have tightend up a few holes by moving tees or letting some tree's grow.A very undulating course and you don't need to be a long hitter to win here.A premium is on a good short game though as good approach shots can often end up off the green.You need to have alot of imagination to get your chips close as the greens are so fast with plenty of borrow and swales.
Before we take a look at who could win I want to point out where my bets will be placed this week!Paddy Powers offer of paying out on six places and money back if Tiger wins is unbeatable.Great to see a bookmaker be so punter friendly,well done Paddy!!
And so who's gonna win??
THE STARS OF THE SHOW
Tiger Woods 9/2 and Rory McIlroy 11/2
Well all the talk is about these two and we are in for a golfing feast if these two are locking horns come the back nine on Sunday.I won't be backing either as there price is to short for me and there are 95 other guys out there with chances too!But I do think Tiger will come out best and has the edge over McIlroy,Tiger having won this tournament 4 times before.And now the swag is back!!Head bobs,fist pumps,the look on his face that screams ''this game is so f*****g easy!''He could chew wee Rory up and spit him all over the slick Augusta greens,what would Ewan Murry from Sky Sports say about that?Sorry I'm getting a little pumped here...as I said before 9/2 is too skinny for me,so who else is out there?
SUPPORTING CAST
Luke Donald 16/1
Has everyone forgot about the world no1??The first time he played at Augusta in 2005 he came 3rd,was one shot back in 2007 until a triple bogey at the 9th finished that challenge and last year was right in the thick of things until he deposited his tee shot at the short 12th straight into Rae's Creek.He showed his steely nerve to win a four way playoff at The Transitions two weeks ago and reclaim the No1 spot.Word from Augusta is that the soft fairways will favour the long hitters and with more rain forcast this could be the only thing to stop Donald but I think his golden touch on and around the greens can compensate.
Justin Rose 33/1
The form horse coming into this week has to be Justin.A 5th at The Honda,a win at WGC Doral and 15th at Bay Hill recently has shot Rose up to 8th in the world rankings.His game looks really solid at the moment and stands 7th in all around ranking.Out of 4 apperences at Augusta he has finished 11th,20th,36th and 5th.He must be confident about his chances and I am too!
Nick Watney 50/1
Last year Nick was the hot horse coming into this tournament(18/1)Out of six start he had 5 top 10 finishes and one win at WGC Doral(near mirror image to Justin Rose this year).But unlike the cocky Rose,Watney seems to be a quite shy guy who does'ent like the camra in his face or reporters chasing him down to ask him if this year is to be his year!All the talk about him this time twelve months ago might have unsettled him and he finished a dissapponting 46th.This year however he's flying undetected under the radar.He has'ent kicked into top gear yet this season,but has been putting some good rounds together recently.11th in 08,19th in 09 and 7th in 2010 shows Nick's liking for the course.He's definatly got the game and talent to be in the mix come Sunday.
THE EXTRA'S
Brandt Snedeker 80/1
MY MAN!!!Love this guy,and I'll love him even more if he's trying the green jacket on come Sunday evening.Gave me a great thrill back in 08 when I had him backed at 250/1.He led at one stage on Sunday only to blow up under extreme pressure and finish a very respectable 3rd.He's a different animal these days and a class act.I really can't believe his price of 80/1.After hip surgery back in November he's come out all guns blazing so far this year.4 top 20s and a win at Torrey Pines already for Sneds shows he's in the form of his life.A couple of flat efforts on the florida swing has me a little worried but had been playing alot of tournaments recently.Took last weekend off and has hopefully recharged those battery's.People talk about peaking at the right time for The Masters and I hope Brandt has'ent peaked too soon but I'm sticking with him.Have been placing some coins on him since November so he stands to win me a small fortune.Also I stand to win a meal for two in a top class local eatery so come on Sneds,no pressure,bring home that bacon!
Bo Van Pelt 90/1
Some great stats this year for BVP...1st-strokes gained putting...1st-birdie average...12th scoring average...6th total driving...4th all around ranking.Out of 7 events played so far this year he has 4 top 10's.8th here at Augusta last year,having thrown all that info at ya you'd think I'm writing about a 10/1 shot!!90/1 give me lots of that,thanks Paddy!!
Charles Howell 150/1
Birthplace--Augusta Georgia
This guy has probably played Augusta more times than Tigers had waffle house waitresses and thats alot!!Once talked about as being a future world No1 but it just has'ent seemed to happen for Chucky yet.But I feel he's begining to show signs of why people held in such lofty thoughts.5 top 25s already this year and this week playing at your local,the price of 150/1 has me dreaming of how much money I'm going to win...Anyone know how hot it is in Barbados next week??
Whatever happens this week I know it's going to be epic,so many of the top players are playing unbelivable golf and a case can be made for many of them to win the first major of the year.All we have to do is sit back and watch!
My homebrewed beer is ready
My fridge is full of food
My shifts at work are swapped
My phone will be turned off
And my curtains will be pulled
See you all Monday morning
Georgia....Ohhhh Georgia
BEST OF LUCK
Monday, April 2, 2012
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Who will win The British Open?
Well the alarm clock is set...8.30am...The British Open is on the BBC at 9am which gives me a half hour to get the tea and toasted sandwiches made,get back into bed just in time to see ''The wonderboy'' Rory tee off at 9.09am.First of all let's get the big question out of the way...Can he win??After what I saw at The U.S Open and the three previous majors before that the answer is most definitely YES!!This time I'd love to see how he could handle the pressure coming down the stretch on Sunday with a one shot lead instead of a seven shot lead!
For me though I can't be backing him this week.Of course I think he has a great chance but at skinny odds of 8/1 there is just no value there.Also in an interview he gave recently he said he found ''golf easy'' when winning The U.S Open.I said that a few years ago and have never played a good round since.Surely making statements like this will ruin his chances!!!!!!
So what about the course,the tournament and what kind of player are we looking for?Well this is the third major of the year and for me must be the most mentally draining major on the players.Played on a rota of courses between Scotland and England every July by the sea.These courses are of course known as 'links' Built on sandy soil and exposed to high winds and rain that falls sideways!
Tour players all year have been playing courses where you hit high tee shots,hit high approach shots which then settle quickly once they land....This type of golf will not work here whoooahahahahahaha(thats my evil laugh!!)Instead players will have to play shots along the ground and use the contours and slopes they see infront of them.A good looking shot might get a bad kick which will cause major frustration,so a player with links experience and great composure are some of the key attributes we should be looking out for when selecting our winner.
This years open is played at Royal St George's golf club in Sandwich,England.It's not the most feared course on the rota,that goes to Carnoustie,but forecast high winds over the weekend so make it a though test.
I think McIlroy,Donald and Westwood all have a great chance of winning this week but because of their prices will have to give them a miss as I try and find some value.And so on to the tee!!
Sergio Garcia(32s Betfair)
Looking at the top ten in the market the one that stands out for me and represents great value is Sergio.Six times he has finished in the top ten at The British Open,Finished T10th here on this course back in 03.7th place at U.S open at Congressional and followed that up with a 2nd place finish at The BMW International.20th on The PGA Tour in ball striking and he's one I want on my team!
Charl Swartzel(50sBetfair)
More of a gut pick this one.Having a great year so far with one major already tucked away.The way in which he won that major shows to me the size of Charl's cajones!!T9th at his next major The U.S Open shows he's a major player.Has two top 25sin six British Opens and could be close to getting his second major title.
Adam Scott(80s Betfair)
Adam is slowly becoming the player everybody thought he could be.Came close to winning his first major at The Masters earlier this year and nearly the first Aussie to win a major since Greg Norman who as it happens won a British Open at RSG.When Adam won in his home country at The New South Wales Golf Club which is a true links course I always had him down as a future British Open champ.3rd in total driving on the PGA Tour and two top ten finishes in the two majors so far this season make Adam a must pick for me.
Paddy Harrington(46s Betfair)
I can't leave him out.My favourite golfer and maybe I'm letting my heart rule my head here but things are looking good for Paddy.Experience could be key as I pointed out earlier and there is not many with more experience of links golf than Harrington.Two wins back to back in 07 and 08 mean that Harrington can never be overlooked for this major.Three top tens on the PGA Tour this year and a great showing last week at Castle Stuart Golf Links in Scotland tells me that Harrington could make it a hatrick of British open wins this week....I hope so!!
BEST OF LUCK!!
For me though I can't be backing him this week.Of course I think he has a great chance but at skinny odds of 8/1 there is just no value there.Also in an interview he gave recently he said he found ''golf easy'' when winning The U.S Open.I said that a few years ago and have never played a good round since.Surely making statements like this will ruin his chances!!!!!!
So what about the course,the tournament and what kind of player are we looking for?Well this is the third major of the year and for me must be the most mentally draining major on the players.Played on a rota of courses between Scotland and England every July by the sea.These courses are of course known as 'links' Built on sandy soil and exposed to high winds and rain that falls sideways!
Tour players all year have been playing courses where you hit high tee shots,hit high approach shots which then settle quickly once they land....This type of golf will not work here whoooahahahahahaha(thats my evil laugh!!)Instead players will have to play shots along the ground and use the contours and slopes they see infront of them.A good looking shot might get a bad kick which will cause major frustration,so a player with links experience and great composure are some of the key attributes we should be looking out for when selecting our winner.
This years open is played at Royal St George's golf club in Sandwich,England.It's not the most feared course on the rota,that goes to Carnoustie,but forecast high winds over the weekend so make it a though test.
I think McIlroy,Donald and Westwood all have a great chance of winning this week but because of their prices will have to give them a miss as I try and find some value.And so on to the tee!!
Sergio Garcia(32s Betfair)
Looking at the top ten in the market the one that stands out for me and represents great value is Sergio.Six times he has finished in the top ten at The British Open,Finished T10th here on this course back in 03.7th place at U.S open at Congressional and followed that up with a 2nd place finish at The BMW International.20th on The PGA Tour in ball striking and he's one I want on my team!
Charl Swartzel(50sBetfair)
More of a gut pick this one.Having a great year so far with one major already tucked away.The way in which he won that major shows to me the size of Charl's cajones!!T9th at his next major The U.S Open shows he's a major player.Has two top 25sin six British Opens and could be close to getting his second major title.
Adam Scott(80s Betfair)
Adam is slowly becoming the player everybody thought he could be.Came close to winning his first major at The Masters earlier this year and nearly the first Aussie to win a major since Greg Norman who as it happens won a British Open at RSG.When Adam won in his home country at The New South Wales Golf Club which is a true links course I always had him down as a future British Open champ.3rd in total driving on the PGA Tour and two top ten finishes in the two majors so far this season make Adam a must pick for me.
Paddy Harrington(46s Betfair)
I can't leave him out.My favourite golfer and maybe I'm letting my heart rule my head here but things are looking good for Paddy.Experience could be key as I pointed out earlier and there is not many with more experience of links golf than Harrington.Two wins back to back in 07 and 08 mean that Harrington can never be overlooked for this major.Three top tens on the PGA Tour this year and a great showing last week at Castle Stuart Golf Links in Scotland tells me that Harrington could make it a hatrick of British open wins this week....I hope so!!
BEST OF LUCK!!
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Who will be crowned U.S Open Champion?
Well it's U.S Open time and I for one can't wait!For one week of the year I love to see professional golfers scramble for pars and just hang though.That's maybe a little sadistic of me I know but when par is good on any hole it makes a change from the norm of players going out and burning courses up with birdie after birdie.From a betting point of view its great too as if your player is in the lead you can never sit comfortably but if your a few shots back one birdie can catapult you to the top!
Over the years The U.S Open has come up with some sporting gold.I'll never forget Geoff Ogilveys win at Winged Foot in 2006.A whole host of players had chances to win.Our own Padraig Harrington was there only to bogey his final two holes and poor auld Monty who needed par on the last to win his only major pushed his approach to the right and into the thick stuff which finished his chances.Also Torrey Pines in 2008 when Tiger won on one leg but was pushed all the way by journeyman pro and fan favourite Rocco Mediate.
Looking at this weeks U.S Open it sets up for a real cracker.Being played at Congressional Blue Course in Washington D.C the course set up is looking...let's say a little though!!It's a par 71 at an amazing 7570 yards long.Alot of the par 4s are in and around 490 yards,the 9th hole is a monster 636 yard par 5,and if it's close come Sunday the 18th is set up for maximum drama.A par 4 that stretches 523 yards and a green that has water on three sides makes the second shot a real test of courage.
The type of player suited to winning a U.S Open is a player who has everything-Long and straight off the tee,accurate with his irons,great scrambler,great putter,Patience and lots of bottle...Easy!!
As usual all prices are given by Bet365 and Betfair as these have the best prices for golf around.You can avil of FREE GOLF BETS by clicking the links above and setting up an account.
Right lets get on the tee-
PHIL MICKELSON(17s Betfair)
If Phil's odds are over 16/1 I always tend to back him as it has payed off before.Five times a runner up in this tournament and I think this year will be his year.People are saying that he's having a bad year and this is reflected in his price but he's already won this year in Houston,second at Torrey Pines,9th at Quail Hollow and most recently 13th at Memorial...bad season??I think Not!The only thing that's killing Phil's chances this week is his driving stats-163rd on tour in driving accuracy is not good especially on a tight tree lined course such as this.But Phil's got an answer and I like it-The driver is staying at home this week and instead will use a trusted 2 iron off the tee,for me this is the play which will see Phil finally win a deserved U.S Open and will finally see this blog get a deserved winner!!!
NICK WATNEY(34s Betfair)
If Phil can't win it this week well I think this guy should be next in line.Surly a major is just around the corner for this kid who I think has everything.The win at The WGC earlier in the year had to convince him that he could mix it with the big boys and come out on top.I was a little disappointed with his performance at The Masters.He had good course form,good current form,he was in the top 3 in the betting and everyone was talking his chances up and I don't think he was comfortable with that and duely finished well down the field.Since then he has'ent played too much but a 4th place finish at The Players alerted me.Now Nick is coming into this tournament under the radar which is how he will like it.12th in total driving,17th in GIR percentage,16th in strokes gained putting and 6th in all around ranking scream U.S Open winner to me and I sincerely hope he obliges...COME ON WATNEY!!
BUBBA WATSON(50s Betfair)
I can't believe this guys price,3 times a winner in the last 12 months,so nearly a major winner after being beaten in a playoff for The USPGA back in August ,7th in total driving,1st in GIR percentage and he's 50's!!!Give me all of that and more.His stats say he can win and I say he can win,does'ent need any more!
BO VAN PELT(100s Betfair)
Sticking with BVP this week as he recently brought some much needed cash to my bank account with a 3rd place finish at 80/1 at Colonial just a few weeks back and followed that up with a 13th at the though Memorial course.Has finished 8th at the years first Major The Masters so he has got major game.Regularly hits fairways and greens and with a putter thats recently started to heat up,keep an eye open for BVP this week!
BILL HAAS(130 Betfair)
Bill was the talk of the tour early in the season with top 10s nearly every week,his best coming 2nd at the Bob Hope.A couple of mid table finishes and nobody is talking about poor old Billy anymore.But I've been keeping a close eye on him and with a 4th place finish at Quail Hollow and an 8th at Colonial recently I've had Bill marked down as a player who could go really well this week.14th in total driving,7th in GIR and 8th in all around ranking is so impressive.Also a little stat that caught my eye was that Bill is 4th on tour at GIR from the rough and 9th on tour at scrambling from the rough,both are going to be needed alot on this course.Another who's price I can't believe and I'm taking it all.
JASON DUFNER(220 Betfair)
I took the 300s available on Dufner at the weekend but 220s is still available and I think its a cracking price!Of course I'm hoping he can get off to a fast start and I can lay a little off but I think he can go really well this week.His recent form line reads 14th at The Heritage,8th at The Byron Nelson and 6th at The Players..not bad!He's one of my favourite players on tour...mainly because he's won me alot of money this year and also he seems to be a player that the bookies don't notice as his price is always big.I tweeted to Jason how he thought he might do this week and to my surprise he replied!!This is what he tweeted ''Great golf course,love my chances,love U.S Open style golf'' Because he replied back to me I'm backing him.COME ON DUFFERS!!!
BEST OF LUCK AND STAY GREEN!
Over the years The U.S Open has come up with some sporting gold.I'll never forget Geoff Ogilveys win at Winged Foot in 2006.A whole host of players had chances to win.Our own Padraig Harrington was there only to bogey his final two holes and poor auld Monty who needed par on the last to win his only major pushed his approach to the right and into the thick stuff which finished his chances.Also Torrey Pines in 2008 when Tiger won on one leg but was pushed all the way by journeyman pro and fan favourite Rocco Mediate.
Looking at this weeks U.S Open it sets up for a real cracker.Being played at Congressional Blue Course in Washington D.C the course set up is looking...let's say a little though!!It's a par 71 at an amazing 7570 yards long.Alot of the par 4s are in and around 490 yards,the 9th hole is a monster 636 yard par 5,and if it's close come Sunday the 18th is set up for maximum drama.A par 4 that stretches 523 yards and a green that has water on three sides makes the second shot a real test of courage.
The type of player suited to winning a U.S Open is a player who has everything-Long and straight off the tee,accurate with his irons,great scrambler,great putter,Patience and lots of bottle...Easy!!
As usual all prices are given by Bet365 and Betfair as these have the best prices for golf around.You can avil of FREE GOLF BETS by clicking the links above and setting up an account.
Right lets get on the tee-
PHIL MICKELSON(17s Betfair)
If Phil's odds are over 16/1 I always tend to back him as it has payed off before.Five times a runner up in this tournament and I think this year will be his year.People are saying that he's having a bad year and this is reflected in his price but he's already won this year in Houston,second at Torrey Pines,9th at Quail Hollow and most recently 13th at Memorial...bad season??I think Not!The only thing that's killing Phil's chances this week is his driving stats-163rd on tour in driving accuracy is not good especially on a tight tree lined course such as this.But Phil's got an answer and I like it-The driver is staying at home this week and instead will use a trusted 2 iron off the tee,for me this is the play which will see Phil finally win a deserved U.S Open and will finally see this blog get a deserved winner!!!
NICK WATNEY(34s Betfair)
If Phil can't win it this week well I think this guy should be next in line.Surly a major is just around the corner for this kid who I think has everything.The win at The WGC earlier in the year had to convince him that he could mix it with the big boys and come out on top.I was a little disappointed with his performance at The Masters.He had good course form,good current form,he was in the top 3 in the betting and everyone was talking his chances up and I don't think he was comfortable with that and duely finished well down the field.Since then he has'ent played too much but a 4th place finish at The Players alerted me.Now Nick is coming into this tournament under the radar which is how he will like it.12th in total driving,17th in GIR percentage,16th in strokes gained putting and 6th in all around ranking scream U.S Open winner to me and I sincerely hope he obliges...COME ON WATNEY!!
BUBBA WATSON(50s Betfair)
I can't believe this guys price,3 times a winner in the last 12 months,so nearly a major winner after being beaten in a playoff for The USPGA back in August ,7th in total driving,1st in GIR percentage and he's 50's!!!Give me all of that and more.His stats say he can win and I say he can win,does'ent need any more!
BO VAN PELT(100s Betfair)
Sticking with BVP this week as he recently brought some much needed cash to my bank account with a 3rd place finish at 80/1 at Colonial just a few weeks back and followed that up with a 13th at the though Memorial course.Has finished 8th at the years first Major The Masters so he has got major game.Regularly hits fairways and greens and with a putter thats recently started to heat up,keep an eye open for BVP this week!
BILL HAAS(130 Betfair)
Bill was the talk of the tour early in the season with top 10s nearly every week,his best coming 2nd at the Bob Hope.A couple of mid table finishes and nobody is talking about poor old Billy anymore.But I've been keeping a close eye on him and with a 4th place finish at Quail Hollow and an 8th at Colonial recently I've had Bill marked down as a player who could go really well this week.14th in total driving,7th in GIR and 8th in all around ranking is so impressive.Also a little stat that caught my eye was that Bill is 4th on tour at GIR from the rough and 9th on tour at scrambling from the rough,both are going to be needed alot on this course.Another who's price I can't believe and I'm taking it all.
JASON DUFNER(220 Betfair)
I took the 300s available on Dufner at the weekend but 220s is still available and I think its a cracking price!Of course I'm hoping he can get off to a fast start and I can lay a little off but I think he can go really well this week.His recent form line reads 14th at The Heritage,8th at The Byron Nelson and 6th at The Players..not bad!He's one of my favourite players on tour...mainly because he's won me alot of money this year and also he seems to be a player that the bookies don't notice as his price is always big.I tweeted to Jason how he thought he might do this week and to my surprise he replied!!This is what he tweeted ''Great golf course,love my chances,love U.S Open style golf'' Because he replied back to me I'm backing him.COME ON DUFFERS!!!
BEST OF LUCK AND STAY GREEN!
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Fed Ex St Jude Classic
The PGA Tour heads south to Memphis,Tennessee for the Fed Ex St Jude Classic,played at TPC Southwind.Four years ago this tournament moved to the weekend before the US Open which means its fields have gotten alot stronger with international players drawn to the event looking to tune up for the second major of the year.
The course is a par 70 at 7244 yards long with 2 par 5s.The greens are small and undulating so GIR and scrambling are at a premium.Only playing small stakes this week as I'm keeping the war chest for next week!!All prices are from Bet365 and Betfair as the prices on offer are the biggest around.FREE GOLF BET'S are available by clicking the links above and setting up an account.And so on to the tee!!
ZACH JOHNSON(18s Betfair)
Having a good season so far but lately he's starting to show some serious form-6th at Quail Hollow,12th at The Players and 4th at Colonial in his last three starts on tour.That reads great but has he any course form at TPC Southwind??Two starts here show a 12th and a 5th...Get your money on Zach!!
DAVID TOMS(11s Bet365)
Form horse on The PGA Tour David Toms is back playing this week after taking last week off.As you all know David came 2nd at The Players and then won at Colonial the week after so he's playing some of the best golf of his career.In the past nine years of this event David has been in the top 5 six times!!!!including back to back wins in 2003 and 2004 and runners up in 2005 and 2009 so he more or less owns the place.Now is not the time to be getting off this horse!
BRIAN DAVIS(75s Betfair)
Taking a chance on the English man here this week as he always seems to do well on par 70 courses.Playing well this year-18th last week at The Memorial,16th at Quail Hollow and 12th at Bay Hill are all respectable finishes at though courses.8th in driving accuracy,33rd in GIR and 37th in scrambling are all good stats here.Might just get his first PGA Tour win this week at a nice price.
ROBERT ALLENBY(60s Betfair)
Not having the best of seasons by his standard.Out of 15 events played this year has only 10 cuts made but has 2 top 10 finishes coming at The Northern Trust(4th) and Houston Open(6th)He's on my team this week due to his course form here.Out of 8 starts he has 3 top 10's.Last year he withdrew with an injury but from 2009 to 2007 he came 4th 2nd and 12th.This guy is too good not to be playing well and I have a gut feeling that we could see Robert in the winners enclosure come Sunday.
Others to go well:
Brian Gay(24s Betfair)The 2009 champ has 3 top 15's here in the last 4 years.
Brandt Snedeker(34s Betfair)T5th here in 07,5 top 10's in 14 starts this season.
Players for trading purposes only:
Camillo 'bejasus' Villegas(95s Betfair)
Feddie Jacobson(75s Betfair)
Bob Estes(360 Betfair)
Tim Herron(280 Betfair)
BEST OF LUCK!
The course is a par 70 at 7244 yards long with 2 par 5s.The greens are small and undulating so GIR and scrambling are at a premium.Only playing small stakes this week as I'm keeping the war chest for next week!!All prices are from Bet365 and Betfair as the prices on offer are the biggest around.FREE GOLF BET'S are available by clicking the links above and setting up an account.And so on to the tee!!
ZACH JOHNSON(18s Betfair)
Having a good season so far but lately he's starting to show some serious form-6th at Quail Hollow,12th at The Players and 4th at Colonial in his last three starts on tour.That reads great but has he any course form at TPC Southwind??Two starts here show a 12th and a 5th...Get your money on Zach!!
DAVID TOMS(11s Bet365)
Form horse on The PGA Tour David Toms is back playing this week after taking last week off.As you all know David came 2nd at The Players and then won at Colonial the week after so he's playing some of the best golf of his career.In the past nine years of this event David has been in the top 5 six times!!!!including back to back wins in 2003 and 2004 and runners up in 2005 and 2009 so he more or less owns the place.Now is not the time to be getting off this horse!
BRIAN DAVIS(75s Betfair)
Taking a chance on the English man here this week as he always seems to do well on par 70 courses.Playing well this year-18th last week at The Memorial,16th at Quail Hollow and 12th at Bay Hill are all respectable finishes at though courses.8th in driving accuracy,33rd in GIR and 37th in scrambling are all good stats here.Might just get his first PGA Tour win this week at a nice price.
ROBERT ALLENBY(60s Betfair)
Not having the best of seasons by his standard.Out of 15 events played this year has only 10 cuts made but has 2 top 10 finishes coming at The Northern Trust(4th) and Houston Open(6th)He's on my team this week due to his course form here.Out of 8 starts he has 3 top 10's.Last year he withdrew with an injury but from 2009 to 2007 he came 4th 2nd and 12th.This guy is too good not to be playing well and I have a gut feeling that we could see Robert in the winners enclosure come Sunday.
Others to go well:
Brian Gay(24s Betfair)The 2009 champ has 3 top 15's here in the last 4 years.
Brandt Snedeker(34s Betfair)T5th here in 07,5 top 10's in 14 starts this season.
Players for trading purposes only:
Camillo 'bejasus' Villegas(95s Betfair)
Feddie Jacobson(75s Betfair)
Bob Estes(360 Betfair)
Tim Herron(280 Betfair)
BEST OF LUCK!
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Memorial Tournament at Jack's Place
Another week on The PGA Tour and this week were at Dublin,Ohio for The Memorial Tournament played at Muirfield Village Golf Club,also known as ''Jacks Place''as the tournament is hosted by non other than Jack Nicklaus.As long as Jack host's this tournament you can expect a stellar field with Tiger Woods(injured) and US Open winner Graham McDowell(defending at Celtic Manor)the only major absentee's.
The course itself is a beaut-designed by Jack Nicklaus himself its a par 72 at over 7265 yards long with four par 5s.Alot of bunkers and water on 13 of the 18 holes means accuracy is at a premium here.As its a Nicklaus designed course,expect players to have some margin for error off the tee but with some of the smallest greens on tour a player with great GIR and scrambling stats are what we are looking for.Also a rookie has never won this event so somewhere between experienced to grizzled vet fits our bill.
Prices as usual are given by Bet365 and Betfair as these are the best prices around for golf.To avail of your FREE GOLF BETS just click on the links at the top of this page and set up an account.It's pretty easy and we all love free bets!!
So who's on the tee this week!!!
KJ CHOI(29s Bet365)
The Players champ is having one of his best ever years on tour and I think it's going to get a whole lot better.Already a winner at Sawgrass he also has an 8th at The Masters,7th at Northern Trust,6th at Bay Hill and a 3rd at The Zurich.Out of the 11 times he's played here at Muirfield he has finished in the top 15 5 times winning once in 07.Choi has been vocal about the fact he feels confident as ever with his golf swing which is what you want to hear before you put your cash down!8th on tour for scrambling and with the form he's showing he has to be on my team.
RYAN MOORE(44s Betfair)
Ryan is a guy who is showing signs that a win is not too far away.Out of 10 events played this year he has only missed the cut once with two top 10 finishes.But it's his course form here that catches my eye 31-2-10-cut-5(last year)that's 3 top 10's in 5 attempts and when I dug a little deeper I found that Ryan had this to say about the event ''It's my favourite tournament all year as far as our PGA Tour events are concerned.I always look forward to it so much that I have a good attitude when I'm out there and play hard and have fun''encouraging!!!On a course that suits ball strikers that can putt,Ryan is 39th in total driving and 6th in total putting....I'm expecting a big week from him this week!!
BO VAN PELT(55s Betfair)
Been keeping my eye on BVP lately and backed him at odds of 80to1 when 3rd at Colonial two weeks ago(see colonial write up)A guy who blows hot and cold but when he's hot you have to stick with him.7 times he's tee'd it up here and has two top 10's to his name finishing 3rd last year...impressive!A great driver of the ball(13th total driving)but also he's 36th in GIR percentage which has him at 18th on tour for ball striking...that's also pretty impressive!!And with a putter thats starting to heat up over recent weeks BVP could be MVP!!
STEWART CINK(44s Betfair)
Stewart drives me mad sometimes as he tends to get off to a great start and then fades away mid tournament.But there is signs that his new swing changes are coming to fruition as 12th 9th and 16th in his last 3 tournaments show.So I'm going to stick with Stewart this week as his course form here is super impressive.Out of 15 events played here he has finished in the top ten 6 times and his form line since 2001 reads 4-9-6-40-45-12-5-30-8-8 how good is that!!!Out of 13 events played this year he has made the cut 11 times with 6 top 25s and if this major winner is to win this year then ''Jacks Place'' might just hold his best chance!
Other players to go well:
Luke Donald(11s betfair)Not much to say here,world no1 and could win anywhere,odds to short!!
Matt Kucher(20s betfair)Having a great season,3 top 10s out of 6 tries here...finds it hard to win!!
Players for trading purposes:
Spencer Levin(150s betfair)
Vaughn Taylor(240s betfair)
Mark Wilson(140s betfair)
Kevin Streelman(250s betfair)
BEST OF LUCK!!!
The course itself is a beaut-designed by Jack Nicklaus himself its a par 72 at over 7265 yards long with four par 5s.Alot of bunkers and water on 13 of the 18 holes means accuracy is at a premium here.As its a Nicklaus designed course,expect players to have some margin for error off the tee but with some of the smallest greens on tour a player with great GIR and scrambling stats are what we are looking for.Also a rookie has never won this event so somewhere between experienced to grizzled vet fits our bill.
Prices as usual are given by Bet365 and Betfair as these are the best prices around for golf.To avail of your FREE GOLF BETS just click on the links at the top of this page and set up an account.It's pretty easy and we all love free bets!!
So who's on the tee this week!!!
KJ CHOI(29s Bet365)
The Players champ is having one of his best ever years on tour and I think it's going to get a whole lot better.Already a winner at Sawgrass he also has an 8th at The Masters,7th at Northern Trust,6th at Bay Hill and a 3rd at The Zurich.Out of the 11 times he's played here at Muirfield he has finished in the top 15 5 times winning once in 07.Choi has been vocal about the fact he feels confident as ever with his golf swing which is what you want to hear before you put your cash down!8th on tour for scrambling and with the form he's showing he has to be on my team.
RYAN MOORE(44s Betfair)
Ryan is a guy who is showing signs that a win is not too far away.Out of 10 events played this year he has only missed the cut once with two top 10 finishes.But it's his course form here that catches my eye 31-2-10-cut-5(last year)that's 3 top 10's in 5 attempts and when I dug a little deeper I found that Ryan had this to say about the event ''It's my favourite tournament all year as far as our PGA Tour events are concerned.I always look forward to it so much that I have a good attitude when I'm out there and play hard and have fun''encouraging!!!On a course that suits ball strikers that can putt,Ryan is 39th in total driving and 6th in total putting....I'm expecting a big week from him this week!!
BO VAN PELT(55s Betfair)
Been keeping my eye on BVP lately and backed him at odds of 80to1 when 3rd at Colonial two weeks ago(see colonial write up)A guy who blows hot and cold but when he's hot you have to stick with him.7 times he's tee'd it up here and has two top 10's to his name finishing 3rd last year...impressive!A great driver of the ball(13th total driving)but also he's 36th in GIR percentage which has him at 18th on tour for ball striking...that's also pretty impressive!!And with a putter thats starting to heat up over recent weeks BVP could be MVP!!
STEWART CINK(44s Betfair)
Stewart drives me mad sometimes as he tends to get off to a great start and then fades away mid tournament.But there is signs that his new swing changes are coming to fruition as 12th 9th and 16th in his last 3 tournaments show.So I'm going to stick with Stewart this week as his course form here is super impressive.Out of 15 events played here he has finished in the top ten 6 times and his form line since 2001 reads 4-9-6-40-45-12-5-30-8-8 how good is that!!!Out of 13 events played this year he has made the cut 11 times with 6 top 25s and if this major winner is to win this year then ''Jacks Place'' might just hold his best chance!
Other players to go well:
Luke Donald(11s betfair)Not much to say here,world no1 and could win anywhere,odds to short!!
Matt Kucher(20s betfair)Having a great season,3 top 10s out of 6 tries here...finds it hard to win!!
Players for trading purposes:
Spencer Levin(150s betfair)
Vaughn Taylor(240s betfair)
Mark Wilson(140s betfair)
Kevin Streelman(250s betfair)
BEST OF LUCK!!!
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Crown Plaza Invitational
What a weekend of golf we just had.The Players started off badly with Tiger Woods pulling out after after nine holes ahem...ahem!!But well done to his good friend KJ Choi in what surely is his finest moment in golf.We did'ent do to badly ourselves with a fourth place finish for Luke Donald and some nice trades with Jason Dufner and Chris Stroud making us a nice profit!
Onwards and upwards and on to this weeks tournament-The Crown Plaza Invitational at The Colonial CC,Fort Worth,Texas.The course is a par 70 with two par 5's and measures in at 7204 yards long.One of the easiest courses on tour(41st out of 52 in difficulty last year)Zach Johnson won this last year with a record score of -21.Forcast for the week is thunderstorms and high winds so maybe wont play as easy as it did last year.All prices are taken from Bet365 and Betfair as these have some of the best prices around.You can set up an online account with both firms by clicking the links above right and collect your FREE GOLF BETS.....Why not take them??
And so who's on the tee this week-
STEWART CINK(42 Betfair)
I'm really liking the chances of the golfing king of twitter Stewart Cink this week.A great wind player(open champ 09)who has a great record here.Out of 13 appearances he has never missed the cut,this includes finishes of 2nd and 4th.Came 22nd here last year when his game was out of sync(excuse me!!)but since The Masters his swing changes have started to come to fruition with a 9th at Quail Hollow and 19th last week at The Players.Great putter,great wind player,great record = Great chance...Top tip!!
ZACH JOHNSON(21 Bet365)
Have to tip up last years champ Zach Johnson.5 appearances here read 1-9-30-26-14 what a great record.The course is a perfect match for Zach-short course with narrow tree lined fairways which puts driving accuracy to the fore(6th on tour)T6th at Quail Hollow two weeks back and T12th at The Players last week with a closing round of 66 show that Zach is brimming with confidence right now.Can he retain his title...Why not?
BO VAN PELT(80 Betfair)
Bit of a risky tip here as this guy is hard to catch right,but has been showing signs lately that a big tournament is not far away.An 8th place finish at The Masters was the first signs of life from BVP and he then followed that with a top 30 at Quail Hollow.It's his record here though that catches my eye.Out of 7 starts here he has 2 top tens also a 12th and 17th place finish with no missed cuts.For a guy coming into form and playing on a course that he obviously has a good feeling for gets me excited about a big payday...watch this space!
JASON DAY(20 Betfair)
I don't like backing favourites but Jason might just be the most inform golfer on the planet.2nd on his Masters debut was some feat and he would have been forgiven for reasting on his laurels but the week after he tied for 9th at The Heritage.T6th last week at The Players shows that Jason means business this year.Won his first PGA Tour event just up the road at the Byron Nelson in Texas last year.A tie for 4th here at Colonial 2 years ago show that he has a liking for both Texas and this course.Oh and have I forgot to mention that he's actually a member here...enough said!
Other players to go well this week:
Ben Crane(26 Bet365):Two top 5's in three years here,seven top 25's already in 2011.
Martin Laird(44 Betfair):Having a great year so far with 5 top 10's including a win.Tied 10th here last year.
Players for trading purposes:
Greg Chalmers(170 Betfair)
Hunter Hass(360 Betfair)
Kenny Perry(180 Betfair)
Jarrod Lyle(710 Betfair)
BEST OF LUCK!!
Onwards and upwards and on to this weeks tournament-The Crown Plaza Invitational at The Colonial CC,Fort Worth,Texas.The course is a par 70 with two par 5's and measures in at 7204 yards long.One of the easiest courses on tour(41st out of 52 in difficulty last year)Zach Johnson won this last year with a record score of -21.Forcast for the week is thunderstorms and high winds so maybe wont play as easy as it did last year.All prices are taken from Bet365 and Betfair as these have some of the best prices around.You can set up an online account with both firms by clicking the links above right and collect your FREE GOLF BETS.....Why not take them??
And so who's on the tee this week-
STEWART CINK(42 Betfair)
I'm really liking the chances of the golfing king of twitter Stewart Cink this week.A great wind player(open champ 09)who has a great record here.Out of 13 appearances he has never missed the cut,this includes finishes of 2nd and 4th.Came 22nd here last year when his game was out of sync(excuse me!!)but since The Masters his swing changes have started to come to fruition with a 9th at Quail Hollow and 19th last week at The Players.Great putter,great wind player,great record = Great chance...Top tip!!
ZACH JOHNSON(21 Bet365)
Have to tip up last years champ Zach Johnson.5 appearances here read 1-9-30-26-14 what a great record.The course is a perfect match for Zach-short course with narrow tree lined fairways which puts driving accuracy to the fore(6th on tour)T6th at Quail Hollow two weeks back and T12th at The Players last week with a closing round of 66 show that Zach is brimming with confidence right now.Can he retain his title...Why not?
BO VAN PELT(80 Betfair)
Bit of a risky tip here as this guy is hard to catch right,but has been showing signs lately that a big tournament is not far away.An 8th place finish at The Masters was the first signs of life from BVP and he then followed that with a top 30 at Quail Hollow.It's his record here though that catches my eye.Out of 7 starts here he has 2 top tens also a 12th and 17th place finish with no missed cuts.For a guy coming into form and playing on a course that he obviously has a good feeling for gets me excited about a big payday...watch this space!
JASON DAY(20 Betfair)
I don't like backing favourites but Jason might just be the most inform golfer on the planet.2nd on his Masters debut was some feat and he would have been forgiven for reasting on his laurels but the week after he tied for 9th at The Heritage.T6th last week at The Players shows that Jason means business this year.Won his first PGA Tour event just up the road at the Byron Nelson in Texas last year.A tie for 4th here at Colonial 2 years ago show that he has a liking for both Texas and this course.Oh and have I forgot to mention that he's actually a member here...enough said!
Other players to go well this week:
Ben Crane(26 Bet365):Two top 5's in three years here,seven top 25's already in 2011.
Martin Laird(44 Betfair):Having a great year so far with 5 top 10's including a win.Tied 10th here last year.
Players for trading purposes:
Greg Chalmers(170 Betfair)
Hunter Hass(360 Betfair)
Kenny Perry(180 Betfair)
Jarrod Lyle(710 Betfair)
BEST OF LUCK!!
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
The Players
Oh yes!!!I love this tournament.The Players Championship ''The fifth major''.Played at TPC Sawgrass,Ponte Vedra Beach in Florida.The course is a par 72 with four par 5's and is just over 7200 yards which is not that long.World No1 Lee Westwood or world No6 Rory McIlroy will not be here as both have politely declined to play this week!But apart from that it's a stellar field.
Last years winner Tim Clark won with a -16 score with the course playing very easy.The rough measured 2 inches last year but this year it will be 3 inches taller meaning a premium on accuracy.The grass around the greens have also been allowed to grow so hitting greens in regulation and scrambling will also be important.
Looking back on previous winners,experienced players seem to do quite well here.Also players who have done well one year,miss the cut the next so it's a difficult tournament to try and find a winner.
But whatever happens this week we know that there will be drama as the closing holes on this course are the most exciting holes found anywhere.The easiest hole on the course(16th)offers plenty of eagle and birdie chances,the hardest hole on the course(18th)offers plenty of bogey and double bogey chances and sandwiched in between is probably the most famous hole in golf-the 17th where almost anything can happen.....I can't wait!!
All prices given are from Betfair and Bet365 as they have some of the biggest prices around.Don't forget to grab your FREE GOLF BETS by clicking the links above right,you would be stupid not too!!O.K so,on the tee!!!
LUKE DONALD(17 Bet365)
Out of the top 3 in the market(Luke,Woods,Micko)Luke seems to have the most realistic chance of winning.Accurate off the tee and this year has really impressed me with his scambling skills.Came close to winning here in 2005 when he came 2nd and has finished inside the top 30 3 times since then which is very consistent on this course.If Luke wins here this week he will become world No1 and make Westwoods decision not to be here a foolish one.
MATT KUCHAR(36 Betfair)
This guy has six top 10 finishes so far this season and has finished no worse than 27th which is some golf.T14th here in 2009 and 13th last year so some consistency and with the form he's showed so far this year has to enter calculations.His 17th in driving accuracy looks good here too and if this Florida native is in the mood this week....Start counting your winnings!!
IAN POULTER(70 Betfair)
I follow ''Poults'' on twitter which can be a great place for finding nuggets of information and according to him he's hitting the ball the best he's ever hit it and is really looking forward to playing this week.Also Rory McIlroy has been ironing his trousers which is'ent much good to us but it made me laugh all the same.Poulter has played here 7 times with 5 finishes inside the top 30(2nd in 2009 his best)29th in driving accuracy and 21st in scrambling are good stats to have here and if Poults wins this week expect poor auld Rory to have some champagne glasses to wash also!!
SCOTT VERPLANK(150 Betfair)
As I said earlier,experience counts around here and none are more experienced than Verplank.16 times he's played here,8 times he's finished inside the top 30 with his best finishes 11th-8th-2nd and 13th last year.Playing some great golf this year with a 2nd in Houston and a 9th at The Heritage two weeks ago.Took last week off so comes here fresh.One of the most accurate drivers on tour(6th) with an all around ranking of 15th makes Scott a standout bet for me this week and with the monster odds on offer I have to make him my top tip,so come on Scotty......Make me some money!!!!
Other players to go well:
Sergio Garcia(65s Betfair)Previous winner here,great record,would be emotional after mentor Seve's death.
Ben Crane(38s Betfair)Top ten's last 3 years,very accurate and great putter=great chance.
Players at bigger odds for trading purposes:
Jason Dufner(150 Betfair)
Jerry Kelly(470 Betfair)
Chris Stroud(640 Betfair)
BEST OF LUCK!!!
Last years winner Tim Clark won with a -16 score with the course playing very easy.The rough measured 2 inches last year but this year it will be 3 inches taller meaning a premium on accuracy.The grass around the greens have also been allowed to grow so hitting greens in regulation and scrambling will also be important.
Looking back on previous winners,experienced players seem to do quite well here.Also players who have done well one year,miss the cut the next so it's a difficult tournament to try and find a winner.
But whatever happens this week we know that there will be drama as the closing holes on this course are the most exciting holes found anywhere.The easiest hole on the course(16th)offers plenty of eagle and birdie chances,the hardest hole on the course(18th)offers plenty of bogey and double bogey chances and sandwiched in between is probably the most famous hole in golf-the 17th where almost anything can happen.....I can't wait!!
All prices given are from Betfair and Bet365 as they have some of the biggest prices around.Don't forget to grab your FREE GOLF BETS by clicking the links above right,you would be stupid not too!!O.K so,on the tee!!!
LUKE DONALD(17 Bet365)
Out of the top 3 in the market(Luke,Woods,Micko)Luke seems to have the most realistic chance of winning.Accurate off the tee and this year has really impressed me with his scambling skills.Came close to winning here in 2005 when he came 2nd and has finished inside the top 30 3 times since then which is very consistent on this course.If Luke wins here this week he will become world No1 and make Westwoods decision not to be here a foolish one.
MATT KUCHAR(36 Betfair)
This guy has six top 10 finishes so far this season and has finished no worse than 27th which is some golf.T14th here in 2009 and 13th last year so some consistency and with the form he's showed so far this year has to enter calculations.His 17th in driving accuracy looks good here too and if this Florida native is in the mood this week....Start counting your winnings!!
IAN POULTER(70 Betfair)
I follow ''Poults'' on twitter which can be a great place for finding nuggets of information and according to him he's hitting the ball the best he's ever hit it and is really looking forward to playing this week.Also Rory McIlroy has been ironing his trousers which is'ent much good to us but it made me laugh all the same.Poulter has played here 7 times with 5 finishes inside the top 30(2nd in 2009 his best)29th in driving accuracy and 21st in scrambling are good stats to have here and if Poults wins this week expect poor auld Rory to have some champagne glasses to wash also!!
SCOTT VERPLANK(150 Betfair)
As I said earlier,experience counts around here and none are more experienced than Verplank.16 times he's played here,8 times he's finished inside the top 30 with his best finishes 11th-8th-2nd and 13th last year.Playing some great golf this year with a 2nd in Houston and a 9th at The Heritage two weeks ago.Took last week off so comes here fresh.One of the most accurate drivers on tour(6th) with an all around ranking of 15th makes Scott a standout bet for me this week and with the monster odds on offer I have to make him my top tip,so come on Scotty......Make me some money!!!!
Other players to go well:
Sergio Garcia(65s Betfair)Previous winner here,great record,would be emotional after mentor Seve's death.
Ben Crane(38s Betfair)Top ten's last 3 years,very accurate and great putter=great chance.
Players at bigger odds for trading purposes:
Jason Dufner(150 Betfair)
Jerry Kelly(470 Betfair)
Chris Stroud(640 Betfair)
BEST OF LUCK!!!
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