This year’s renewal makes its bow at the Jack Nicklaus-designed London club in Kent, and features a rare European appearance from Sergio Garcia, who is favourite across the board.
The Course: The London Golf Club, Ash, Kent, (par-72, 7,257 yards)
The course is built on a large open area with four large lakes bringing water into play on six holes. The fairways have been narrowed for this week and wind is expected to be a factor. However, this is not a difficult course by modern standards. The four par-5’s (5th, 8th, 13th and 15th) are all reachable in two and offer realistic birdie / eagle opportunities. With light rough, receptive greens and very few hazards in play, expect scores in the low 60’s.
Ross’ Top Tip: Sergio Garcia @ 10/1 Paddy Power
The Spaniard makes a rare appearance in the South of England, and the hint should be taken. There are few better strikers of the ball and his immaculate iron play should yield plenty of birdie chances around here. In practice, he had only two hundred yards for his second shot on both the fifth and the eighth and hit both into twenty feet. If only he could sink more putts! Still, he’s rock solid each way value at 10/1.
Next Best: Robert Karlsson @ 16/1 Skybet
With Garcia and Padraig Harrington taking out a significant percentage of the book, the in-form Swede is a bigger price than he should be. His tie for 13th at last week’s French Open was his worst finish in seven outings going back to the Masters in April. However, he did well to make the cut considering he was suffering from flu, and his weekend finish of 68-69 suggests he’s still firing on all cylinders. Should at least make the frame again.
Outsider: Johan Edfors @ 80/1 bet365
Has been scoring consistently well all season without really challenging, but that could be about to change. His two previous Tour wins - the British Masters and Scottish Open - were both achieved on courses not dissimilar to this week’s track, and as he currently sits third in Europe for GIR (greens in regulation), he makes plenty of appeal at the prices. Get on the 80’s while it lasts.
Ross’ Match Bet: Sergio Garcia to beat Padraig Harrington @ 10/11 Skybet
Tournament Lay (Betfair): Padraig Harrington
First appearance since the US Open, where he finished a disappointing 36th, and his aim will be to peak for his Open title defence in two weeks.
Recommended Bets:
Sergio Garcia 2pts each way @ 10/1 Paddy Power
Robert Karlsson 1pt each way @ 16/1 Boylesports
Johan Edfors 1pt each way @ 80/1 bet365