Betting Advice for the British Open at Birkdale

July 16, 2008 - Lawrence Foley The world's elite golfers meet tomorrow to contest the 137th Open Championship at Birkdale, all that is, except one.  In fact, Tiger Woods' absence from the field has perhaps been talked about more than any of the other players' prospects of lifting the claret jug.  Whilst the gloom merchants are predicting lower viewing figures and a reduced amount of betting revenue for the bookmakers, those who know the game of golf know that Tiger's absence simply means that this major is one that will be more unpredictable, more exciting, and perhaps one that springs a surprise or two.

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First off look at the field without Tiger, and try if you can to forget the fact that he isn't here.  It still boasts some of the best players in the world and indeed some of the best that the game of golf has ever seen.  Jim Furyk, Phil Mickelson, Ernie Els and Vijay Singh are household names, and when on their game undoubtedly able to give Woods a run for his money.  All are in with a shout and all will fancy their chances of dominating a Tiger-less field.  If any or all of these four are in contention come Sunday, then you wouldn't want to be opposing them.   

Sergio Garcia has been installed as the bookies' favourite, and you can see why.  He has a solid record in this tournament having finished inside the top ten on six of the last seven occasions.  He should have won last year though, and allowing Harrington back in to beat him in the play off will have hurt, just how badly remains to be seen.  Harrington himself is struggling even to compete having suffered an injured wrist, but there are plenty of others who can inflict more pain on Sergio this time around.

Vijay Singh is one of the most mercurial talents in the sport, and after finishing in a distant 65th place in the US Masters, he will be keen to put on a performance and consolidate his position amongst the world's best.  Two others to consider are Australian Geoff Ogilvy, who has been in excellent form this year and has spent the last couple of weeks playing links courses all over the north of England, and the Argentinian Andres Romero who had such a brilliant final round at Carnoustie last year.  Ogilvy is a best price 28/1 with Paddy Power at present, and the Irish firm are paying an incredible 7 places.

Recommendations:

Geoff Ogilvy e/w 28/1 (Paddy Power)
Vijay Singh e/w 35/1 (William Hill)
Andres Romero e/w 50/1 (William Hill)
Sergio Garcia top ten finish 11/10

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