THE US Masters from Augusta – the first major of the year – swings into eagerly-anticipated action today, and this year’s event is probably more open than ever.
Several of the European stars are in decent form, including world No1 Martin Kaymer, while Tiger Woods is beginning to emerge from his self-induced slump following his well-documented problems, and reigning champion Phil Mickelson is smiling again after his win at the weekend in the Shell Houston Open.
A quick trawl of some of Huddersfield’s leading professionals suggests that they too believe there is no out and out favourite for this year’s tournament.
Euro pro tour player Chris Hanson, from Woodsome Hall, has a sneaky feeling for England’s Luke Donald or America’s Dustin Johnson.
“I reckon Donald will be somewhere near at the end of the week,” said Hanson.
“I know he’s not the longest of hitters, but I don’t think you have to be at Augusta, and he always putts well.
“Obviously I’d like a European golfer to win it, Luke is the top-rated European by the bookies at 9/1 with Rory McIlroy at 10-1, but I also think Johnson has a good chance, and then you can never rule Tiger Woods out!”
Bradley Hall professional and Halifax, Huddersfield Alliance president Rob Booth fancies the chances of current champion Phil Mickelson to retain the green jacket, although on the home front he thinks Graeme McDowell might well be the best bet among the European contingent.
“I’d like to see Tiger (Woods) up there, but he’s not quite got it back just yet,” remarked Booth, speaking after winning another Alliance pro-am competition on his home course on Tuesday.
Long-time Dewsbury professional Nigel Hirst is another golfer who would like to see Woods get in on the act this week.
“I’ve got to be patriotic and root for Lee Westwood to win this week, but it wold be nice to see Tiger in the mix again.
“We know he’s had his problems of his own making, but I think he’s served his time now and I’m sure most people would like to see him back up where he belongs. I also wouldn’t rule out Mickelson, because he really is quality.”
After four victories over the Augusta course, Woods is still high on the agenda for the bookies who have made him second favourite behind Mickelson.