There is no shortage of quality players looking to take advantage of Tiger Wood’s absence this week, with seven of the world’s top-10 teeing it up at Quail Hollow, the venue for the Wachovia Championship since 2003.
The Course: Quail Hollow CC, Charlotte, NC (par-72, 7, 442 yards)
It’s no surprise that four of the five champions here have been major winners as this course could stage one with relatively few changes. It’s a long track but long hitters aren't necessarily at an advantage as there is plenty of trouble to be found, with difficult rough (reported to be less severe this year) and several water hazards. This places a premium on accuracy, especially as the ball can be chased on to the green on many holes. The large bentgrass greens are undulating and difficult to read. The par-5’s are the 5th, 7th, 10th and 15th, which is the last realistic birdie chance due to the tough closing stretch.
Ross’ Top Tip: Geoff Ogilvy @ 22/1 Stan James
Having lumped on the big-hitting Aussie for the Masters, it was disappointing to see him finish a lowly 39th. Still, he was in cracking form in the run-up to Augusta and his record at Quail Hollow – two top-10’s and a worst finish of 24th in four starts - makes him by far the most appealing of the market leaders and 22/1 is fair.
Next Best: Andres Romero @ 50/1 Paddy Power
The young Argentine got me out of trouble when finishing Top Debutant at Augusta, and is obviously a fast learner as previously he’d won the Zurich Classic of New Orleans on his first look of the TPC Louisiana. Both that track and Augusta are par-72 layouts of around 7,400 yards, which is a good sign that he can go well here too on his debut. Mark my words - he’s a star of the future and will become a regular winner on Tour. Even at 50/1, the bookies might be underestimating him.
Outsider: Nicholas Thompson @ 125/1 bet365
The 25-year-old Floridian is starting to establish himself as a serious Tour player. He has already rewarded each way backers twice this season, and at big odds too. He finished third at 175/1 in last week’s Byron Nelson Championship, and was fourth in the Zurich Classic of New Orleans at the end of last month, when again going off a generally ignored rag. His power off the tee will be an asset this week and there’s no reason why he can’t make the frame again at a tasty 125/1.
Ross’ Match Bet: Geoff Ogilvy to beat Adam Scott @ 11/10 (8/11 Scott) Skybet
Recommended Bets:
Geoff Ogilvy 2pts each way @ 22/1 Stan James
Andres Romero 1pt each way @ 50/1 Paddy Power
Nicholas Thompson 1pt each way @ 125/1 bet365
