Played at Gleneagles, the venue for the 2014 Ryder Cup, this is the last counting event for Europe’s finest to book their ticket to this year’s Ryder Cup at Valhalla without the help of the captain’s wild-card pick.
The Course: Gleneagles (Centenary Course), Perthshire, Scotland (par73, 7,320 yards)
Situated on the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond, this Tom Weiskopf-designed course has generously wide fairways and gives players the opportunity to set up birdie / eagle chances with accurate iron play. The immaculate greens are bent / poa grass. There are only three par-5’s - the 3rd, 6th (625 yards) and the 13th - and two driveable par-4’s - the 9th at 340 yards and the 14th at 371 yards. In calm conditions, birdies are easy to find strong winds and mist are always potential hazards.
Ross’ Top Pick: Alastair Forsyth @ 40/1 Blue Square
Despite being lumbered with my pick, the Scotsman played solidly enough in last week’s KLM Open for 34th place, which followed on from a superb ninth-place finish in the USPGA. Back in his homeland, I expect a much more prominent showing on a course he clearly likes – 18th last year, sixth in 2006, runner-up in 2003, and seventh in 2000.
Next Best: Ross Fisher @ 35/1 Paddy Power
Should have done better than 28th on his only appearance at Gleneagles two years ago, but he’s a much better player now and he will know that a top-five finish is required this week to ensure his Ryder Cup place. He’s not the type to be phased by the pressure.
Outsider: Michael Campbell @ 50/1 VCbet
Incredibly, the 2005 US Open champion is still looking for his first victory since his Pinehurst triumph, but he is striking the ball sweetly again and, mark my words, it won’t be long before he’s winning. Last week’s eighth place finish will have encouraged him greatly.
Tournament Lay (Betfair): Justin Rose
The mild-mannered Englishman needs a big week to secure his Ryder Cup place, but I wouldn’t bet on it. Certainly, he looked edgy after hauling himself into contention at the start of the third round of the KLM last week, fading away badly to finish in a tie for 34th.
Ross’ Match Bet: Darren Clarke to beat Justin Rose @ 19/20 Blue Square, 888sport
Recommended Bets:
Alastair Forsyth 1pt each way @ 40/1 Blue Square
Ross Fisher 1pt each way 35/1 Paddy Power
Michael Campbell 1pt each way @ 50/1 VCbet