Blustery Birkdale takes its Toll - The Open Championship

The first day of the 137th edition of the Open Championship at Royal Birkdale was dominated by two factors - the worst weather in 40 years and the resurgence of one of the true greats of the game, the inimitable Greg Norman, who carded a very impressive 70, one behind the leaders Allenby, McDowell and Mediate.

As if the unconquerable dunes and punishing rough were not sufficient hazards, the conditions in the morning were virtually unplayable with driving rain and icy winds making it very difficult for the players. The three balls that teed off first in the morning session had to bear the brunt of the foul conditions and the scores reflected the tricky nature of the course early on.

Veteran Norman gets Standing Ovation at the 18th
There were moments of brilliance, however, and Australia’s Adam Scott claimed the early lead with fantastic long drives and elegant shots around the greens but it was the 52-year-old Greg Norman who got the crowds buzzing - his round certainly wasn’t faultless but it was the way in which he got himself out of trouble, particularly his bunker shots, that was so very impressive for the veteran.

It’s going to be a very interesting second day and pundits and players alike will be praying for the weather conditions to improve. Can Rocco Mediate, who pushed Tiger Woods to a playoff at the US Open this year, confound the critics and claim the lead for himself or will we see the awesomely talented Ross Fisher, Anthony Kim or Martin Kaymer finding their form?

William Hill, sports bookmaker of renown, are not convinced Greg Norman can continue his good form at Royal Birkdale and have him 66/1 as the outright winner, well behind the stock favourite, Sergio Garcia at 7/1.

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