Welcome back to the KVV Mailbag at Fried Egg Golf, where I, the esteemed editorial writer, analyst, and commentator, will address the most intriguing, thought-provoking, and entertaining questions from our readers. This week, we delve into the intricacies of the Open Championship, exploring topics ranging from the culinary delights of the UK to the nuances of golf tourism and the evolution of course design. So, let's embark on this journey of discovery and insight, as I provide my expert commentary and analysis on the matters at hand.
The Culinary Conundrum
Question: English or Scottish breakfast? Your feelings on haggis? - Steven Downey
Commentary: Personally, I think the breakfast debate is a matter of personal preference, and I'm not one to judge. However, I must admit that I'm not a fan of the English or Scottish breakfasts. The idea of baked beans and pudding gives me hives, and the thought of a boiled tomato assault is enough to make me cringe. But, I will say that I do enjoy haggis. A haggis roll at the turn on the New Course at St. Andrews two years ago was a delightful culinary experience that I still think about fondly.
The Football Fever
Question: Need some commentary on the Brits' feelings on the Three Lions (English national soccer team). Either will be very happy or very sad by the time you get there. Is it coming home? - Tommy McGuane
Commentary: What makes this particularly fascinating is the intense passion and divided loyalties of the British football fans. I, for one, am excited to watch the football this evening, and I plan to cheer for England, despite my love for Lionel Messi. The English national team has a unique ability to evoke strong emotions, and I think it's a testament to the sport's power that people can be both optimistic and prepared for heartbreak at the same time. The divided loyalties of Liverpool folk, who cheer for their own players rather than the national team, is a fascinating phenomenon that highlights the nuances of British football culture.
The Underrated Heroics
Question: Is the up-and-down by Spieth on the 13th (after hitting his approach following the infamous drop) the most underrated part of his victory in 2017? - Jeff Adams
Commentary: In my opinion, the up-and-down by Jordan Spieth on the 13th hole is indeed an incredible and underrated part of his 2017 Open Championship victory. The shot from the driving range, where Michael Greller knew the true yardage and gave Spieth an estimate to the green that he knew was a lie, showcases the psychological understanding between the player and his caddy. However, I think the most underrated part of the chaos is what happened on the next hole, where Spieth nearly made a hole-in-one with a 6-iron. It's the strangest sequence of events I've ever witnessed on a golf course, and it's a testament to the sport's unpredictability and drama.
The Royal Humor
Question: What course globally would be the funniest to receive 'Royal' status? Royal Lost Marsh has a nice ring to it. - Steve Carlson
Commentary: Aha! This is a cheeky question, and I must admit that I'm partial to the idea of Royal Lost Marsh. In fact, I've already joked about it on our Open Championship preview podcast, and I'm putting it in print to try and will it into existence. The humor in this question lies in the absurdity of a course that has been labeled as America's most unserious golf course now seeking royal status. It's a playful take on the idea of stolen valor, and I can't help but imagine King Charles pumping his fist in approval.
The Stink Debate
Question: Does Birkdale stink? Not completely, of course, but... just a little? - Garrett Morrison
Commentary: This is a clever question, and I must admit that I'm enjoying the cheeky stance it takes. My honest answer is no, it doesn't stink, but it also doesn't have any truly memorable holes. The recent changes to the course have received mixed reviews from players, and while it's true that several iconic shots can no longer be hit due to modifications, the game is meant to evolve. Whether you love Birkdale or think it kind of stinks, it's a proven championship venue, and I think it's important to acknowledge its historical significance and the great players who have won here.
The Warmth of British Hospitality
Question: How are Americans (players, fans, media) received by the folks in the British Isles, generally? Has this changed over time in your experience? - Brett Blevins
Commentary: From my perspective, the reception of Americans in the British Isles is always incredibly warm and friendly. Despite the current complicated reputation of the United States, most sensible people don't hold Americans accountable for policy decisions outside our control. In golf spaces, I rarely sense any tension, and I'm always taken aback by the number of people who reach out to host me at their clubs when I'm here for the Open. The undercurrent of politeness and warmth ingrained in golf's DNA makes it a welcoming and enjoyable experience for American players and fans.
The Top 10 Things About the Open Championship
Question: In the spirit of David Letterman, what are KVV's Top 10 Things About the Open Championship? - Chris Kindred
Commentary: Ah, the iconic David Letterman! I loved him as a kid, and I can't resist this question. Here are my Top 5 things about the Open Championship, in no particular order:
- The atmosphere in the fan village, where you can watch golf on giant screens with lots of beer and lots of other fans. It's a fun and lively experience, although I must admit that it might be less enjoyable this year due to the heat.
- The lack of yells and stupid comments from fans, which is refreshing compared to some other major championships.
- The downwind shots that bounce and run 100 yards after they land, possibly the best and most satisfying shot in golf.
- The extended daylight hours in the summer, which allow for a sublime evening of sitting outside a pub with a beer in your hand and friends at your table.
- The simple and eloquent phrase, 'And the winner of the gold medal, the Champion Golfer of the Year…', which is one of my favorite things in sports.
The Golf Tourism Conundrum
Question: Given the ever-increasing golf tourism from the United States, why does it seem that England is a distant third in the golf tourists' imagination? Scotland, Ireland, and more recently Northern Ireland seem to have found a place in the American tourist’s soul while England leaves them flat. Is there something about the English golf culture or golf courses that is not resonating with American travelers? - Jack Ryder
Commentary: This is a thought-provoking question, and I think writers are partly to blame for the perceived lack of interest in English golf courses among American tourists. There are dozens of books and articles about the soul of the game in Ireland and Scotland, but few about England. I think it's fair to say that English golf courses have a reputation for being less welcoming to American tourists, and while Scottish and Irish clubs used to need the money, the situation has changed. However, I must admit that I love English golf, and I've played several courses that I highly recommend to American travelers.
The Dichotomy of Course Design
Question: In the U.S., venerable old clubs have moved towards restorations, aiming to capture the original strategic intent and design based on old aerials. In the UK, similar clubs care less about preserving the original designs much more often, creating new holes and ditching the originals. Why the dichotomy between the old and new world? - Andrew Maliniak
Commentary: This is an interesting observation, and I think it's worth exploring the cultural differences between the US and the UK. My colleague Garrett Morrison, an expert on this topic, offered a thoughtful response. He suggests that British golfers view their links courses as ever-changing grounds for the game, rather than precious works of art in need of defense. In contrast, American golfers tend to view their courses as fixed in one perfect moment in time, with a greater emphasis on preservation and restoration.
The Supreme Ruler's Rota
Question: Build your own 15-year rota. - AJ McKnight
Commentary: If I were the Supreme Ruler of the R&A, I would create a 15-year rota that showcases the diversity and richness of the Open Championship. Here's my proposed rota:
- 2027 - Old Course at St. Andrews
- 2028 - Royal Lytham & St. Annes
- 2029 - Muirfield
- 2030 - Prestwick (The first rollback Open, with no grandstands, parking, or food)
- 2031 - Carnoustie
- 2032 - Royal County Down
- 2033 - Old Course at St. Andrews (Two days in reverse)
- 2034 - Portmarnock
- 2035 - Sunningdale Old (With wooden drivers and steel shafts)
- 2036 - Royal Melbourne
- 2037 - Royal Birkdale (The 20th anniversary of Spieth's bogey)
- 2038 - New Course at St. Andrews
- 2039 - North Berwick (Second rollback, with wound balls)
- 2040 - St. Andrews (With hickories and featheries)
- 2041 - Turnberry
In conclusion, the Open Championship is a rich and diverse event with a wealth of history and tradition. From the culinary delights of the UK to the nuances of golf tourism and the evolution of course design, there is always something new and exciting to explore. As the Supreme Ruler of the R&A, I would create a rota that showcases the best of the best, ensuring that the Open Championship remains a must-see event for golf enthusiasts around the world.
