yeah.  i figured it out later.

:-)

Interesting course.  It is almost backwards.  The first 6 holes are hard.  But there are two par 5s back to back towards the end of the round and a short #18.  I think the biggest question is how tricked up does the USGA make the course conditions.  Do they make it so hard to make sure that no one gets under par to ensure no repeat of last year or do they get afraid of making it too hard and hearing about it so they error on the other side and some players do get under par.  Their are some short holes that can be taken advanatage of.  I think there will be a handful of players under par.  A few will take adavantage of those short holes and limit any damage on the longer ones.  Could be some big swings towards the end of rounds.

And let's not forget the effect weather will have on this course!   If it blows in from the Ocean and is cold and humid, EVERYONE is going to struggle with ball flight and distance.   I've been to 3 US Opens and, except for the excitement of a major, I find them boring because of the usual dearth of decent scores and the lack of reward for excellent shots.   Shinnecock was the worst course and tournament I've EVER seen.....place looked like ground under construction for a new Mall and the players were obviously miserable out there.  

I loved Shinnecock.  A great test . I've played it as well. It's magnificent.

Based on the research I have done I still say the winning score will be under par.  I understand the sloped fairways and doglegs.  Remember, "These guys are good."  It will have to blow and the greens be concrete for it not to happen.  E won in '98 and I think the depth and level of talent and equipment is much better.

 

 

 Paul_Sr., I like how you gave all quick access to the u.s. open website.

Can someone explain to me why Tiger is teeing off on Thursday at the 9th hole?

 

 

They said something about the 9th being closer to the clubhouse than the 10th. For some reason they feel it is better than having the players walk a little more to the 10th.
I still don't understand it.

LOL