An Open Letter to Tiger

Dear Tiger,

Conspicuous by your absence. Four words from Birkdale sums up your convalescence in sunny Florida, which everyone hopes is progressing apace.

The 2008 Open Championship produced many highlights, some good, some bad, and a finish which was truly magnificent.

During the first two days a "slight breeze" from the Irish Sea, accompanied with torrential rain caused a wee bit of consternation among the contestants.

Poor old Sandy Lyle, who surrendered after nine holes, was castigated by the media and the R&A who informed him in no uncertain terms, his chances of being a European Ryder Cup captain had dropped to zero. The furore created allowed Rich Bean, who did likewise, to escape under the radar!

Some of your fellow countrymen failed to make the cut after the second day of similar weather conditions. Some accepted it with good grace, "Calc" for instance smiled happily whilst declaring it was the rub of the green, and like General McArthur vowed he would return next year.

Jerry Kelly, in high dudgeon sought, in vain, a word or two with Peter Dawson, CEO of the R&A. Then late in the day, John Daly's caddie, burdened with a brand new set of clubs, some unused, plus copious cans of cola, dozens of burgers and heaven knows how many packs of gigarettes, trudged his weary way towards sanctury, whilst his master strolled behind totally unconcerned.

Those Americans who made it to the final stages, were a great credit to your nation, both in their play and demeanour. All were superb, but special mention is due to: Roco Mediate, Phil Mickelson, Jim Furyk, Ben Curtis, Davis Love, David Duval, Tom Leaman and Woody Austin.

A newcomer who created quite a stir was Camilo Villegas. Initally many scribes (including the writer) thought it a name taken from a medical journal, however the quality of his golf soon proved otherwise.

"The Great White Shark" almost achieved the impossible and indeed led the championship going into the last nine holes.

Then the "boyo" from Dublin changed gear and showed his Irish guts and determination to become the first professional, since James Braid in 1906, to capture "the auld claret jug" two years in succession.

Like yourself, Padraig Harrington is a great family man and his "extended" family plus half the population of Dublin were assembled around the final green for the presentations.

For 15 minutes, clutching the jug to his chest, he paid tribute and thanks to each and everyone, one of the longest ever made by a victor.

Like the majority of Irish folk, Padraig has kissed The Blarney Stone !

Hoping you will be able to make it to Turnberry next year.

Sincerely yours,

Peter Hughes