The Rex Hospital Open was my first chance to play the TPC At Wakefield Plantation, a course which I found to be tricky and subtly split with sneaky fast greens.
Designed by Hale Irwin, a three-time United States Open champion, the par 71 TPC course is very hilly with a dramatic change in elevation on each hole that forces you to think carefully about ball placement. The open fairways can distract you from the up and down terrain that brings more blind shots into play during a single round then we are used to facing throughout the entire season.
Irwin incorporated very few water hazards into the design. There’s a creek in play on seven holes and a large lake at No. 9 which separates the tee from the fairway. Each hole is immediately surrounded by huge front to back greens. There are only 65 bunkers but they’re placed so that they play a key role in how each shot is set up.
Challenges on the course coupled with the first real intense weeklong heat lead to the most awkward tournament of the season.
My score of 73 on Thursday and 72 Friday was not enough to make the cut for only the third time this season. I’m disappointed that I missed the cut but I continue to have confidence in my game and swing right now.
The season is about a third complete and I’m very happy with my results. It’s amazing what being in the top 10 on the money list with a tournament victory will do for your perspective. Success does breed success, especially in sports. While the Rex Open was played on a course that didn’t set up well for me, I remain very positive about the season. My more positive outlook has a lot to do with the support of my friends and fans, my family and sponsors. I really appreciate your loyalty and dedication.
The Tour roles into Byron, Minnesota for the Rochester Area Charities Showdown at Somerby. For design enthusiasts, this course is a great example of the “golden-age”. Visit www.somerbygolfclub.com for excellent photography of information on the course layout.
Jay
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