Apparently the USGA isn’t too happy about Rory McIlroy going deep last June.
Sixteen under (-16) isn’t what USGA Executive Director Mike Davis, or anyone else, likes to see at an event that prides itself on being “the toughest test in golf.”
The Olympic Club in San Francisco, CA will play at a par-70, stretching 7,170 yards. Including a 670 yard 16th hole. A par-5 of course.
The US Open is historically held on a course setup that puts a premium on par.
The righteousness of par actually meaning something makes the US Open my favorite major of the year. My fear is however, the 2013 event will turn into a debauchery of mishaps that end up crowning a winner who was able to screw up the least.
From what Mike Davis is saying, they’re trying to provide a brutal test while still rewarding good shots. History has shown however, the year after a US Open setup takes one on the chin, competitors of the following championship pay the price.
The year after Johnny Miller shot 63 in the final round to win the 1973 US Open, Hale Irwin won at Winged Foot posting a smooth 7-over par (+7) total.
I’m a fan of the notoriously tough US Open setup, I just hope Davis and the crew keep it within a realm that can still be entertaining.
How about you. Are you looking forward to the championship grind-fest or are you hoping for more birdies?
