Spectator strategy and tips for the open

[sunshine]

oh and another one.

what do people put in their rucksacks?

Waterproofs, golf glove, a few tees, sleeve of Pro V1’s. You never know when you might get the call up to play in the Open, so best to be prepared. Make sure you wear your golf shoes and clothing too.

 

[Backache]

Waterproofs, golf glove, a few tees, sleeve of Pro V1’s.

Callaway warbirds set you apart from the pack a bit better.

 

[bradleywedge]

Well, thought I'd post the result of the day out here.

Arrived 7.00 at the park and ride after an 1hr 15 min drive, bus in was sound about 10 mins, got in Royal Portrush had a mooch about, bite to eat, shopping in the merchandise tent (massive by the way), then decided to settle sat on a hill at the bottom of the TV tower directly behind the 2nd green.

Basically sat there from about 8.45 until 2.30 just watching all the players hit their 2nd/3rd to the green and putt out. So basically got to see all the players pretty close up. At one point I walked to the tee and watched 1 game Thomas/Fleetwood tee off and take all their shots on the hole.

Then chaos ensued. Everyone obviously went tear arsing after Rory so it was just impossible to get near, so thought sod that and positioned myself about halfway down the 9th fairway and watched a few groups come through. By that time i'd had enough, went over to the merchandise tent again where by now all the non-interested/piss heads and congregated to basically just drink. Had a bit of food then headed to the exit with scheffler about 5 holes to play.

Result was inevitable from the start of play, so the golf as a competitive spectacle was kyboshed by the conditions/Schefflers brilliance.

After filling a suitcase full of jackets, wets, sandwiches and drinks and lugging that round in roasting heat all day I was cream crackered by the end.

Experience was good, but wouldn't do it again. I can see the pro's and con's of both walking and sitting in the stand, but the sheer ampint of people there makes it a very testing day.

Big credit the the organisation which was brilliant, everything off to a tee (pardon the pun), also the Irish were very friendly and welcoming everywhere, would definitely go back there, but to play not watch next time.

Thanks for all the tips