Welcome back to the KVV Mailbag at Fried Egg Golf, where I tackle your questions, from the smart to the silly. This week, we're diving into the Open Championship, Royal Birkdale, and the intricacies of golf culture and courses. So, let's get started!
Mailbag Highlights
- English or Scottish Breakfast? I'm with you, Tommy McGuane. I'm not a fan of the UK's breakfast culture, especially baked beans and pudding. But I had a delicious haggis roll at the New Course in St. Andrews, so there's that.
- Three Lions and the World Cup The English national soccer team's journey to the World Cup final is a rollercoaster, as Rory McIlroy predicted. I'll be cheering for England, despite my love for Lionel Messi and the Red Sox and Cubs fanbases.
- Spieth's 2017 Victory The up-and-down on the 13th hole is an underrated part of Spieth's 2017 Open Championship victory. It's a testament to his skill and the course's challenges.
- Royal Lost Marsh I'm putting in a good word for Lost Marsh, as Andy and I joked about honorary memberships. It's a funny concept when American clubs claim the "Royal" title without any royal connection.
- Royal Birkdale's Reputation Garrett Morrison's question about Birkdale's reputation is intriguing. While it's not a stinker, it lacks memorable holes. The recent changes have received mixed reviews, and some iconic shots can no longer be hit.
- American Reception in the UK Brett Blevins asks about the warm reception Americans receive in the UK. I agree, it's generally friendly and funny. Golf spaces are polite, and the offer of a club membership is a cherished gesture.
- Top 10 Things About the Open Championship I've narrowed it down to five, including the fan village, the lack of yelling, downwind shots, the extended daylight, and the eloquent phrase "Champion Golfer of the Year."
- Golf Tourism and England Jack Ryder's question about golf tourism is thought-provoking. Writers often focus on Scotland and Ireland, while England's courses are less explored. It's a matter of perception and the charm of the Irish and Scots.
- Restoration of Golf Courses Andrew Maliniak's observation about the difference in restoration approaches between the US and UK is interesting. Garrett Morrison provides insight into the British attitude towards golf courses as ever-evolving, rather than fixed works of art.
- My Dream Rota If I were the Supreme Ruler of the R&A, my dream rota would include iconic courses like St. Andrews, Royal Lytham & St. Annes, Muirfield, and Prestwick, with a twist of playing two days in reverse at St. Andrews.
