Farmers Insurance Open
Thursday Jan 28 – Sunday Jan 31, 2010
Formally known as the Buick Invitational, the PGA Tour heads to the west coast of America and Torrey Pines, California where we are told to expect rain and blustery coastal conditions. Played on two courses (North and South) over the four days but with the North only being used for one round and the longer South featuring three times, it seems as though someone who is long and accurate off the tee is neccessary. However, looking over previous year's results and the stats seem to suggest otherwise, in fact you have to look back to 2007 in order to find one of the top five actually ranking in the top 10 in driving distance and over the last five years only two players in the top five have ranked in the top 10 in driving accuracy. To me it seems as though, while an added bonus, an expert off the tee is not crucial in challenging for the title.
Far more important in my eyes seems to be a player who consistently posts high greens in regulation percentages as course management over the tricky South Course (ranked 5th out of 51 in difficulty on the PGA Tour in 2009) is imperative.
Only one selection this week as I shall probably have another look at the halfway mark.....
John Senden - The Australian does not have the greatest of course form, but in six appearances he has missed the cut only once in 2006 and has posted a respectable 8th and 13th in 2008 and 2002 respectively and managed to card a round as low as 64 in 2007. However, what appeals to me is Senden's ability to hit greens in regulation as shown last week in the Bob Hope where he ranked 8th in GIR hitting a very impressive 80% and supported by the fact that he ranked 1st overall in GIR on the PGA Tour in 2009. Hitting the ball an average of 294 yds in 2009 this could be an added bonus as is the fact that his second from last tournament he posted a 2nd place finish. 0.5pts e/w @ 65/1 (Stan James)