Monday 13 December 2010

South African Open 2010

The 100th running of the 2nd oldest golf tournament takes place at Durban Country Club this week, an event that has seen just 8 non South African winners in its entire history. The defending champion, Richie Ramsay ended a 8 year sequence of home grown winners which had included Major winners, Els, Goosen & Immelman. So with the grass type being a crucial factor in favouring the home players, please forgive me for sounding repetitive in putting up yet again, Thomas Aiken. This weeks he goes off as a 28/1 shot.....better odds than last week due to the field including Ernie, Goose & Tim Clark (twice winner here). Aiken finished well last week (makes a change!) to finish 5th and he can go even better this week. He is at a different level at home and it cant be long now before he wins again. Of the favourites, I like the chances of Charl Scwhartzel @ 12/1. Slow starter last week, he did finish top 5 also in the end, and should be warmed up nicely for this. I backed James Kingston last week and but for his 77 on Saturday he would have challenged for the title. He bounced back on Sunday for a tie for 10th and that means I will stick with again this week.

TIP 1 3 pts WIN Charl Schwartzel @ 12/1 (Betpack). In form and will want this title to cap a good 2010 but moreso to kickstart the new season. Has the allround game to win this week and its a very confident selection this week.

TIP 2 1 pt e/w T.Aiken @ 28/1 (Betpack). Finished 5th last week and plays much better on home soil. If he can put 4 good rounds together he can win. (of course the winner needs to but the case for Aiken is that he seems to produce 3 decent rds each week with 1 poor rd, needs to get a good start)

TIP 3 1 pt e/w J.Kingston @ 33/1 (Betpack). Former winner and top 10 finish last week, but for his 77 on Saturday he would have challenged for the title. He bounced back on Sunday for a tie for 10th and that means I will stick with again this week.

Tuesday 7 December 2010

Alfred Dunhill Chmapionship - 2010

The 2011 R2D campaign kicks off in South Africa this week with a fairly weak field- only 2 players in the World's Top 100 compete. Charl Schwartzel quite rightly tees off as favourite but his odds of 5s/6s are too short despite the quality of field so relunctantly I will be looking elsewhere. Louis Oosthuizen will be keen to make his mark in his homeland as will Thomas Aiken. This blog has put Aiken up a few times and did so recently, but his top 15 finish in Dubai suggests he is in form and is worth taking this week at 18/1. Another native that does tend to go well on home soil is James Kingston and his odds of 50/1 are excellent so is worth chancing. Lee Slattery is taken as my final pick, 66/1- decent enough odds for a player that is capable of winning on tour especially in a field of this calibre.

TIP 1 1 pt e/w T.Aiken @18/1 (Betpack). Due another win and his long game will suit Leopard Creek, has gone close a few times in this tournament and his top 15 finish in Dubai augurs well.

TIP 2 1 pt e/w J.Kingston @ 50/1 (Betpack). Native Sth African has always played well on home soil. Odds represent excellent value.

TIP 3 1 pt e/w L.Slattery @ 66/1 (Betpack). Englishman can do well in this type of field, will like the course and could surprise this weekend.

Wednesday 1 December 2010

No Bets this week

After a disappointing final round by Ross Fisher last Sunday in Dubai, action turns to the Nedbank Challenge in South African & The Aussie Open down under. I wont be betting on either this week, the Aussie Title is always hard to assess for value bets and the Nedbank is a limited field. Back next week though for the Alfred Dunhill and the South African Open the following week. Next year the Dubai World Championship will be held in December making the tour in 2012 a calendar year tour, so for the time being I will keep the bank as it is and perhaps break it out for 2011, Jan - Dec. Either way, its 2 profitable years in a row since the blog began with 2010 showing + 275 pts almost. good target for next year !!

Bank Balance after Dubai World Championship +333.49

Tuesday 23 November 2010

Dubai World Championship 2010

Bank Balance after Singapore open +341.49 pts

An entriguing affair in Dubai this week where Graeme McDowell is hoping to rein in Martin Kaymer for the R2D Title. A win in Spain and 2 top 6 finishes in Singapore & Hong Kong suggests he is hungry to take the Order of Merit despite the busy schedule but its compatriot, Rory McIlroy who may just shine this week on a course that he should love. In a 60 man field, the odds of 12/1 aren't bad but I'm not 100% convinced Rory has established the killer instinct to win these big ones yet. I fancied Poulter to go well last week but decided the odds weren't of good value and I am making the same call this week but would not be surprised if Rory wins. But I have selected 4 players who I do think can shake up the market leaders and do well here, 3 of which have good record in the Middle East/desert courses.

TIP 1 1 pt e/w R.Fisher @ 33/1 (Betpack) Ross is a player I have marked for great things. Has the long game to compete here and can get very hot with the putter. Great odds and he will relish the challenge this week

TIP 2 1 pt e/w C.Schwartzel @ 45/1 (Betpack) Another big hitter who plays well on these type of courses. Form has dipped lately but this event can be the catalyst to produce the goods.

TIP 3 1 pt e/w H.Stenson @ 50/1 (Betpack). The Swede now lives in Dubai nad has won twice in the region. Showed signs of returning to form lately and will be looking for a good showing here.

TIP 4 1 pt e/ R.Green @ 66/1 (Betpack). The left hander from down under again has a great record in this region of the world, has shown good form and will be quietly confident of another good tournament in Dubai.

Tuesday 16 November 2010

Hong Kong Open 2010

With all betting, we have a purple patches and our bad patches, but its been a long time since I picked 4 golfers who ALL missed the cut as was the case last week in Singapore. Harringtons performance was the most annoying as he was -5 after 10 holes in the first round, 3 off the lead. Padraig needs to work hard over the winter as more major are there for the taking if he gets his head sorted out!
This week is the last chance for many to make the top 60 for Dubai and its yet again a difficult tournament to pick the winner. Ian Poulter has a great chance this week but I thought he would go on and win last Sunday but returned a disappointing 73. Best odds of 12/1 aren't my cup of tea and that goes for Graeme McDowell @ 9's McIlroy at short single figure odds is just simply madness. The course is under 7,000 yds this week at Fanling so it does give a lot more players a good chance to play well and again I am looking at players trying to cement their place in Dubai. And forgive me for putting him once again when he has continued to fail to deliver but currently ranked 59th, Thomas Aiken simply has to perform this week. The South African should be winning tournaments and can go low on any given day so at odds of 100/1 (Paddypower) he is taken once again "keeping the faith". Simon Dyson may have been at the wrong end of the draw last week and he is given another chance this week @ 45/1. Oliver Wilson & Alexander Noren are also tipped as they have shown steady form lately and they are quite capable of winning here at Fanling.

TIP 1: 1 pt e/w T.Aiken @ 100/1 (Paddypower). Lying 59th in the R2D and playing well the past couple of months. Can go low on this type of course and well worth a bet at these odds with top 5 very possible if not a victory.

TIP 2: 1 pt e/w S.Dyson @ 45/1 (Boylesports). Does play well in this part of the world and will be looking forward to Dubai. Expect him to be making measureables on his game this week and challenge.

TIP 3: 1 pt e/w A.Noren @ 66/1 (Paddypower). Playing very well lately, course will suit him and if he can get going early can put up big challenge. Great odds.

TIP 4: 1 pt e/w O.Wilson @ 60/1 (Boylesports). Maiden win cant be far away and would be a great time to do it. Playing well, just needs to put 4 very good rounds together. These odds wont be available once he gets the maiden victory.

Wednesday 10 November 2010

Singapore Open 2010

BANK BALANCE AFTER WGC-HSBC CHAMPIONS +345.24

Rory McIlroy managed to limit the losses last week in China and so we head to the the 2nd last event before the duel in Dubai. The Singapore Open at Sentosa sees defending champion Ian Poulter in action as well as former double winner, Adam Scott. For me this week, I am looking at players who have done well in this part of the world before and trying to achieve some end of year targets. Seung-Yul Noh of Korea finished well last week and will be looking to cement his position at the head of the Asian Order of Merit this week before he can concentrate on Dubai. With 6 events left on the Asian Tour, I expect him to be challenging. Simon Dyson has great record in Asia and he will be going into this week with great confidence after a short rest and he has to be taken especially at 45/1. Charl Schwartzel will love this course and showed last week he is getting back to his early year form and is great value at 22/1. My final choice is Padraig Harrington, despite disappointing me last week after a solid opening round. He did finish T16th but he will be hungry for a win to follow up on that win in Malaysia. He too likes this part of the world having won in Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia and Korea. 22/1 is still good value for a player of his calibre.

TIP 1: 1 pt e/w C.Schwartzel @ 22/1 (Paddypower). Long hitting course at Sentoas which will suit his game, getting back to his best form too.

TIP 2: 1pt e/w P.Harrington @ 22/1 (Betpack). Good record in Asia, won recently in Malaysia and will be looking to improve his standing in the R2D. Can win here

TIP 3: 1pt e/w S-Y Noh @ 35/1 (Betpack). The Korean leads the Asian Tour Order of Merit, is in form and has course form. Good bet for this.

TIP 4: 1pt e/w S.Dyson @ 45/1 (Paddypower). the Englishman has good memories in this part of the world and is in confident mood and odds are real value that have to be taken. well rested and i expect a good showing.

Wednesday 3 November 2010

WGC - HSBC Champions 2010

BANK BALANCE AFTER ANDALUCIA MASTERS + 345.99 pts (2010 = +293.06 pts)

Graeme McDowell provided the blog with its 6th winner since beginning of August last week boosting the bank to 345.99 pts since the blog began March 2009. 2010 has produced a profit of 293 pts and with just a handful of events left for the year the challenge is left to try find one more winner. This week sees just 78 players teeing it at Sheshan International GC in China for the WGC Champions Tournament. Focus once again is on the "top 4" and who will emerge as World Number 1. Unlike last week, Kaymer may have a different objective this week, he may want the title of HSBC Champion more than the No.1 crown, in fact I would go as far as to suggest that the World No 1 tag is not a priority for the German. Of the top 4 this week, he has to be more favoured. Tiger is well rested and no doubt has been practicing hard under new coach, Seán Foley and could go well, but at 8/1 I wont be paying to find out, whilst Westwood may need the outing, likewise out of form Mickelson. So, it doesn't leave me with much to look at really.The players I do expect to challenge this week are those that may feel inspired by results elsewhere the past month or so. And these all point back to European players. Casey, Poulter & Donald are three due a win, especially Casey and this is a course he likes. At 18/1 he would offer good value. But following last weeks "Irish Affair" with Gmac prevailing over Meath native, Damien McGrane and fellow Ulsterman, Gareth Maybin, I am expecting the desire from Rory McIlroy to kick in this week. The long course will suit him and the small field also. Rory can be had at 25/1 (Boylesports). Another Irishman who has different incentives this week is Padraig Harrington who is coming off a win in Malaysia. Wins instigate confidence and the win for Padraig should produce that confidence to finish the season off as best he can and climb the R2D rankings in time for Dubai. For me, the odds this week are good at 33/1 (Boylesports). My other fancy is again, Ross Fisher, he is quite capable of winning the big events as I remarked last week. He is playing well despite not keeping a score together and is worth a minimum bet at 40/1.

TIP 1: 1 pt e/w P.Harrington @ 33/1 (Boylesports). Dubliner can bounce back on to world stage and ignite tail end of season campaign with back to back victories.

TIP 2: 1 pt e/w R.McIlroy @ 25/1 (Boylesports). Will take inspiration from good buddy, GMac's win last week. If driving well can put himself into position and has good playing partners day one in Retief Goosen and Wen-Chong Liangs.

TIP 3: 1 pt e/w P.Casey @ 18/1 (Paddypower). Due a big win and has been challenging well in the Fed-Ex Series. Will be smarting after Ryder Cup omission and will be anxious to win here. Has terrific course form too.
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TIP 4: 1 pt e/w R.Fisher @ 40/1 (Paddypower). Quite capable of winning the big events. Birdieclubtipster "keeping the faith".

Wednesday 27 October 2010

Andalucia Masters 2010

Valderamma hosts the Andalucia Masters this week where the world will be watching to see if Martin Kaymer can make it 4 in a row and become the new World Number 1. A Runners-up spot would get him that tag either and bookies have him at 13/2 favourite to win. Readers of this blog will know that I have tipped him in those last 3 events also but 13/2 is a bit too short for me. I do think he will be up there but the value bet is being sought again this week. Graeme McDowell @ 15/1 is my main bet this week, he has the accuracy and the patience required on this course and has 2 top 10s at the Volvo Masters on the course in 2007 & 2008. He should be well rested and will be keen to close the gap on Kaymer for the R2D title. Stephen Gallacher is another who has played well lately without doing much on the leaderboards and he too will be keen to move a towards a top 15 placing in the R2D. Thomas Aiken despite not showing attacking form the weekends is also playing well and is taken again in good faith to produce the goods soon. Ross Fisher is also due a big title and he too has the all round package similar to Kaymer to excel here.

TIP 1: 1.5 pts e/w G.McDowell @ 15/1 (Betpack); GMac is rested and is keen to go for the last phase of the R2D and has the accuracy required for Valderamma. Will challenge.

TIP 2: 1 pt e/w R.Fisher @ 20/1 (Betpack) ; the Englishman is due a big title, won the Irish Open this year and has the all round game to be a Major Champion. Course will suit him

TIP 3: 1 pt e/w S.Gallacher @ 66/1 (Boylesports). The Scotsman is playing well without getting results but can put a good tournament together here, excels in the bigger events. Worth a punt at these odds.

TIP 4: .5 pts e/w T.Aiken @ 100/1 (Paddypower). Played well the past 2 weeks without attacking Sundays. Needs to do so but well worth a punt at 100/1, can be anything this guy and I have to "keep the faith".


TIP 2: 1 pt e/w

Tuesday 19 October 2010

Castello Masters 2010

Action heads to Sergio Garcia's hometown Castellon this week for the 3rd running of the Castello Masters. El Nino is the favourite to win, he did so in 2008 and finished tied 4th last year so he has a chance in fairness and his appetite should be helped following the Ryder Cup victory earlier this month as he begins his "comeback". I wont be backing him, always have found it hard to back him, its too skinny to find out if the local knowledge will be the 15th club this week. Last week, I sidestepped Alexander Noren @ 33/1, I stated I wanted to assess his form and that if he was around 50/1 I would invest. After an opening 65, I was beginning to rue that decision but he did slip, before finishing in a tie for 36th. I think he will take heart from his opening 65 & closing 68 last week and he will also like the course this week where he tied for 3rd in 2008 and he does seem to go well in tournaments that produce a feast of birdies. His odds are half of the 50s I wanted last week but the course and consistent form suggests he is ready to win again.Soren Kjeldsen is also a player that has shown a bit of form at this course in 2008 with a tied 4th. he will like this shortish course this week and I do expect him to go well after a good showing last week in Portugal. I really would like to "keep the faith" with James Morrison but he is making too many bogeys lately and he cannot afford to do that this week. I relunctantly will oversee him in preference for Oliver Wilson, who was in very good form last week despite a poor Sunday round. He HAS to win soon and this could be the week when most eyes will be on Garcia and his compatriot, Jose Maria Olazabal.

TIP 1: 1 pt e/w A.Noren @ 25/1 (Betpack): Form is consistent the past 3 tournaments and has a liking for the course. Out early on Thursday in the 2nd group and if he can get going on the birdies will be a contender.

TIP 2: 1 pt e/w S.Kjeldsen @ 28/1 (Betpack): Showing signs of a return to form and this course is tailored made for him. Well worth backing at these odds.

TIP 3: 1 pt e/w O.Wilson @ 25/1 (Betpack): Despite 4th rd 73 last week, has been getting back to his best. Should do well in this class of field and finally get the maiden win

Tuesday 12 October 2010

Portugal Masters 2010

BANK BALANCE AFTER DUNHILL LINKS +332.87

Martin Kaymer duly obliged for the 3rd time in a row last Sunday and for the 3rd time, he also boosted this blogs profits by 36 pts for that win at St Andrews. His win also completed the blog's 3rd winner in 4 events so lets hope the good run continues this week when the tour returns to Portugal and the Oceanico Victoria GC. Hard to pick a true favourite this week but I think the bookies have it right in Ross Fisher but for me the odds of 14/1 aren't value enough for me to be backing him. After a good opening round last week, he faded away before a good 4th rd moved him back up to a share of 11th. No doubt at all though that Ross will go well this week but I'm after a value bet for a player I think can win. That should mean I would or should be looking at one of my old favourites, Alexander Noren, who has returned to form lately- 9th in Paris and t-17th in Scotland. He should be a runner this week too on a course he shot 62 on last year and has finished in the top 20 the past 3 years. But again, best odds of 33/1 dont represent good value for me especially as his form since injury has yet to be confirmed, granted the last 2 outings are encouraging and he returns to a course he clearly likes but if he was closer to 50/1 then yes I would be on. Danny Willett, although shorter in the betting, has been knocking on the door and is due to win soon and does have a great chance this week. Simon Dyson is a player that thrives on confidence and his bold showing at St Andrews on Sunday will see him in the mood this week. My third selection this week is for a player whose form has dipped the past couple of months but has great form in this part of the world this year alone with a win, a playoff defeat and a 6th placing, Thats James Morrison !

TIP 1: 1 pt e/w S.Dyson @ 25/1 (Ladbrokes): Form player who will be buoyed by his showing last week. Quite capable in this lineup and he will fancy his chances. Partnered too with the in form John Parry for the first two days.

TIP 2: 1 pt e/w D.Willett @ 22/1 (Paddypower); Getting closer each tournament and can carry on that trend again this week. Maiden win is not far away and the course will suit.

TIP 3: 1 pt e/w J.Morrison @ 150/1 (Boylesports); Won the Madeira Islands Masters this year and was beaten by Alvaro Quiros in a play-off for the Open de Espana, and was 6th at the Open de Andalucia in March suggesting this part of the world is a good place for him. He missed cut last week but had top 10 in Paris in outing before so game not in bad shape. Well worth a punt at these odds.

Wednesday 6 October 2010

Dunhill Links 2010

Bank Balance after Vivendi Cup & Tour Championship + 302.87

After a pulsating Ryder Cup on Monday, the action returns to Scotland tomorrow for the Dunhill Links where 9 of the victorious European team will be taking part. That immediately asks the question if these 9 are capable of producing the goods so soon after the Monday euphoria not to mention the late night beers ! Lee Westwood heads the betting along with Rory McIlroy but I am discounting both of these due to Ryder Cup exploits (different reasons but related to the Ryder Cup). McIlroy simply loves links golf but I do believe he is on too much of a high from Monday and may not be focussed for this week. Westwood should be tired and his injury is still not 100% cured. Of the team though, I do fancy both Martin Kaymer & Ross Fisher, the quiet men who are playing very well at the moment despite their singles defeats, in fact, those defeats may just trigger the duo into a good performance this week and the odds of 16/1 & 22/1 are great value. I have looked hard for a good value bet for a 3rd selection and to be fair there is plenty of value this week for the pro-am event but I am gonna stick with an old favourite of mine following his good result last time out, Alexnader Noren.

TIP 1: 2 pts e/w Martin Kaymer @ 16/1 (paddypower): Will be disappointed to lose so heavily on Monday in his singles match, has a good record in this effort and will be hoping to increase his lead at the top of The Race to Dubai with a win. Goods odds for his calibre with question of market leaders ability to produce goods following Monday's exploits.

TIP 2: 2 pts e/w Ross Fisher @ 22/1 (betpack): Another who will be disappointed with his defeat on Monday but seems to be gelling nicely with his caddie. Game sems to be near his best again and one of the best putters on tour. All round package and is destined for bigger things and can cement his top 15 placing in the R2D this week if not win.

TIP 3: 2 pts TOP 10 finish A.Noren @ 9/1 (paddypower). Been a frustrating year for the Swede but played well last time out and this format will suit him this week. He will be aiming to have a good couple of months and hopefully a top 10 wis in his grasp this week.

Please note odds for Kaymer are 16/1 and not 20/1 as previously communicated.

Wednesday 22 September 2010

Tour Championship 2010

The final playoff event sees the race for the $10million Fedex Cup conclude at East Lakes for The Tour Championship. In form Matt Kuchar looks the one to beat but although a local boy it will be interesting to see how he copes with the emotions. No doubt he is the one to beat this week but I have selected 2 that provide better value in the betting, with just 30 runners good value can be got.

TIP 1: 1 pt e/w Zach Johnson @ 22/1 (Boylesports). Playing very well this season and lately too, the fast greens will suit his putting which will be key this week. Has been threatening to win for a while and can do it on the big occassion.

Tip 2: 1 pt e/w Hunter Mahan @ 33/1 (Paddypower). Exceptional odds for a 30 runner event for a player who can beat this best when on his game. His game is not that far away and was in contention twice in the opening 2 playoffs before the weekends, but couldn't limit the mistakes. If he can limit them this week he can win.

Tuesday 21 September 2010

Vivendi Cup 2010

Bank Balance after Austrian Open + 312.87

Another win for the blog last week when Jose Manuel Lara beat David Lynn in a playoff to seal an incredible 4th win in 8 weeks for us. To add to the joy, Danny Willett somehow hung on for a place to boost the total weekly profits by another 86.50 pts. So, can we make it a hatrick? This week sees a new event on yet another unknown course but to add to the conundrum the first 2 rounds are played on 2 seperate courses in pro-am format. Harrington loves pro-ams and is playing with his brother but he will be looking for a good showing also to fine tune his game for Celtic Manor and I do expect him to go well but I wont be investing at best odds of 10/1.

TIP 1: Todd Hamilton @ 50/1 (Ladbrokes): Going to stick with the American who never really got into contention last week but did finish in a tie for 15th. The odds are excellent value for a player playing well lately.

TIP 2: James Morrison @ 100/1 (Paddypower). Has been rested and could go well again this week in this relaxed format. Has had a great season but gone off the boil lately, but has the skills to bounce back. Well worth a punt at these odds.

TIP 3: Alastair Forsyth @ 100/1 (Paddypower). Produced a lot of birdies last week and did very well to make the cut and then grab a tie for 20th. Is finding form and odds are great value for a player who can produce at any given moment.

Tuesday 14 September 2010

Austrian Open 2010

Bank Balance after KLM Open & BMW Championship + 226.37

Another great winner for the blog last week with Martin Kaymer winning easily at the KLM Open. If the greens had been better then he most likely would have won by more then the 4 shots in the end but the ease of the win was incredible(sure I had the winnings spent Saturday evening !!!). Seriously though, its back to the drawing board this week and its not easy to find the blogs 6th winner in 3 months at the Diamond Course in Austria. A new course with loads of water, so none of the players will be familiar except home favourite Markus Brier. He actually went well last week and could ride local support for a good showing which is crucial for him as he lingers around the 115 spot on tour and will hope to use the home advantage to boost his chances of keeping the card. Bookies have him priced too low for a player of his calibre so its not a bet for me. On paper, it looks as if Jiminez is the man to beat, its a strange choice to play this week as prizemoney is small enough and the 7/1 on offer doesn't appeal to me. I have selected 3 players who I do expect to go very well this week, one in particular I have high hopes.

TIP 1: 1 pt e/w T.Hamilton @ 50/1 (Ladbrokes). Former Open champion is settling in well in Europe and has been playing fairly well. He may have done better last week if he could have handled the greens a bit better. This course looks like accuracy will be key and Todd definitely has the game for a course like this. 50/1 is bit overpriced in my opinion and the American could be quite dominant on the leaderboard this week. Big hope for this week.

TIP 2: 1pt e/w Jose Manuel Lara @ 66/1 (Boylesports). The Spaniard is languising down the order of merit and is some €30K behind the 115 spot to ensure a card for next year. He went very well last week finishing in a tie for 4th and collecting €70K. Another top 5 this week is very much within his capabilities as the field is probably the weakest all year. Its the time of year when these players at the wrong end of the order of merit grind out the prizemoney.

TIP 3: 1 pt e/w D.Willett @ 28/1 (Betpack). This tip was a toss up over Richard Green, Damien McGrane and Robert Rock, who were all in the 25-33/1 price bracket. Course will suit the Irishman down to the ground but his putting has let him down lately whilst Willett is finding form again. But for his 75 last Saturday he could have been Kaymer's nearest challenger. Its on that showing that he gets the nod and he can dust himself down again for this and will be confident of a good showing.

Wednesday 8 September 2010

BMW Championship

The 3rd of the 4 playoffs takes to Cog Hill this week where Tiger defends and seeks his 6th victory there. At 7/1 its very tempting and even ore so considering his efforts last week. For me he is worth backing this week. Corey Pavin "picked" him for the Ryder Cup, although it would have been a wrong call not to...too much to lose if he omitted him. Tiger will be buoyed by the vote of confidence, will relish playing Cog Hill, will relish just the 70 man field and will set himself a target of landing this and qualifying for The Tour Championship next week and holding onto his World No 1 status for 2010. Tiger to bounce back this week !

So its the full 4pts win on Tiger @ 7/1

Tuesday 7 September 2010

KLM Open 2010

Bank Balance after European Masters & Deutsche Bank +180.37

Seung-Y Noh grabbed 4th last week in Switzerland to return 16 pts but the weekend should have been more profitable! Hunter Mahan had a weekend to forget, he was -13 after 9 holes in the 3rd rd on Sunday tied for the lead but gave 5 shots back on the homeward journey. On Monday he got an early birdie but ended up +5 for his rd to slip right down the field. Very frustrating to watch it happen when he had just got into the mix. But thats golf and thats betting! We made a 6pts profit for the week, if we did that every week we'd be happy.

This week's European action returns to Hilvershume GC in Holland, which last hosted the KLM Open 5 years ago. All the talk is about Simon Dyson this week but I just cannot see him beating the USPGA Champion, Martin Kaymer who plays in his first tournament since winning at Whistling Straits. Yes, he will be mobbed by reporters etc in Holland, but he is German, which means the cool head will prevail. Dusseldorf is not far from anywhere in Holland so he wont be travelling far either (less than 2 hrs drive if he wanted to). Kaymer is class, and the quality of the field, although quite good, is not near that of Martin's. Ross Fisher I rate as the next best although potential dangers lurk in the shape of Manessero, Schwartzel, Molinari and Robert Karlsson(who is due a return to form soon). Alvaro Quiros may go well this week too if he "goes for it". For me this week its a case of who can challenge the German and if Ross Fisher can add to his Irish Open title and rise the Race to Dubai rankings now that it reaches its final 10 events. The blogs old favourite, Thomas Aiken showed a bit of promise last week and the bookies have duly noted, but he is worth considering for a top 10 finish on the grounds he starts early thursday and pending that round can set him up for a challenge. Speaking of old favourites, I will be watching Michael Campbell's scorecard this week. He is @ 23/1 & 33/1 for top 20 finish with Skybet & Extrabet, he had 8 birdies in his first rd last week, if he can steady the mistakes he could be on his way back.

TIP 1: 4 pts WIN Martin Kaymer @ 12/1 (Betpack). The recent Major Champion can win here if the added attention does not affect him. Stand out quality player in this field. Odds not as bad as anticipated and therefore represent value for a win only bet.

TIP 2: 1 pt WIN Ross Fisher @ 20/1 (Betpack). Can challenge if he starts well. Has the game to be a Major winner and will be looking forward to Ryder Cup & Dubai over the next 2 months. WIN only the tip, can tail off if not in with chance to win.

TIP 3: 1 pt TOP 10 Finish Thomas Aiken @ 15/2 (Betpack). The South African has not quite showed the potential the past 18 months or so but finished well last week. Quite capable of anything and may do well this week on a course that should suit his game down to the ground.

Will look at a 4 pt investment also for the BMW Championship, the 3rd playoff event in the FEDEx Cup. I will post those 4 pts advice tomorrow.(Wednesday)

Thursday 2 September 2010

Deutsche Bank Fedex Cup Playoff Week 2

Its a very open field this week, very hard to pick the winner so the stategy is to find a couple of players representing value that could get over the winning line or at least pay value for a place. Those two players are:

TIP 1: 1 pt e/w H.Mahan @ 40/1 (betpack) Tipped by the blog last week but never got going. Is a big time player, winner this season in big fields and will like this forgiving course. 40/1 is great value for him

TIP 2: 1 pt e/w R.Palmer @ 80/1 (betpack)In best form of his career right now with 2 top 5's in last 3 starts. With this and the price on offer its a good value e/w bet

Wednesday 1 September 2010

Omega European Masters 2010

Bank Balance after Johnnie Walker & The Barclays + 174.37

The picturesque course at Crans-sur-Sierre GC is the venue in Switzerland this week on the European Tour, where one of this blog's favourite players, Alexander Noren, is defending his title. Unfortunately, his form this year is very poor and it looks as if a repeat performance wont be on the cards this week. I have selected 3 players for this week who I expect to not only contend over the 4 days but who have a realistc chance of winning despite the tournament throwing up winners from nowhere with no apparent form. That said, the Roll of Honour does possess some star players.

TIP 1: 1 pt e/w Bradley Dredge @ 20/1 (Betpack). Whilst not a great fan of the Welshman's style of play, or his consistency, he is a player that does have a fantastic record at this course. Boasting 6 top 20 finishes, with 4 of those inside the top 4, winner in 2006 by 8 shots and scores of 62 & 64s in the portfolio, he simply has to be backed this week @ 20/1 having shown some decent form lately.

TIP 2: 1 pt e/w Rhys Davies @ 33/1 (Paddypower). Delighted to hear that Monty has included the young man with a role within the Ryder Cup team as he will be a future star for Europe. He can add a bit of pressure on his compatriot above this week too with his brilliant putting game on a course that tends to throw up a lot of birdies. Great value for a player quite capabale of winning any given week.

TIP 3: 1 pt e/w Seung-yul Noh @ 60/1 (Boylesports). The young Korean has an abundance of talent and has the ability to win here. Playing with the Great White Shark for the opening 2 rounds will be a great help to him not to mention in form Edoardo Molinari.

Wednesday 25 August 2010

Johnnie Walker Championship 2010

Bank Balance after Czech Open + 183.37

The final event before Monty names his team Sunday evening tees off in Gleneagles tomorrow. Peter Hanson's win last week has given Monty a headache now with a big decision on who to pick as his 3 wild cards. Hanson's win for me means that Edoardo Molinari may miss out, or will he? Harrington & Casey will be picked so its the 3rd pick that is really up for grabs. Rose? No thanks, Donald, for me no thanks but there seems to be a lot of talk of him getting the pick. He plays mainly in the US so for me that in itself is a reason to pick a European Tour player and that means one of Rhys Davies, Edoardo Molinari, Alvaro Quiros of Ross McGowan. I would pick Rhys Davies, he's Welsh its being held in Wales and has shown great attitude all season. Interestingly he has been paired with Tomas Bjorn & David Howell, Monty's advisers. He can be backed at 25/1 with Extrabet to make the team. I hope he gets the pick, that said Quiros would be good for the team and would be good partner for Jiminez, but he needs a good 4 days at Gleneagles to swing it and the course should suit him but the weather may not! Edoardo has won already in Scotland this year and will be looking for another win to clich a spot on the team but the pressure to do so will go against him.

TIP 1: 1 pt e/wNicholas Colsaerts
@ 40/1(betpack): Ross Fisher is favourite this week and I am very tempted at 18/1. However , there is some value to be got this week if we look hard enough as the bookies have the odds fairly bunched this week suggesting this could be won by anyone. One player that has been ultra consistent this year is long hitting Nicolas Colsaerts who has caught my eye time and time again and see no reason why this week he can finally cross the winning line and capture his first title. 40/1 is about right for him this week.

TIP 2: 1 pt e/w Rhys Davies @ 40/1(betpack) : As mentioned above the Welshman has the potential and attitude to represent the team well and he may just fancy his chances of going well here this week. Whether Monty picks him or not he will be going for a best effort this week.

TIP 3: 1 pt TOP 10 Finish Rafa Echenique @ 10/1(betpack) The long hitting Argentinian (how come all the Argentines hit it a mile?) is coming back into form and has had decent enough form at this course. Worth a bet @ 10/1 for top 10 finish

I am not taking a 4th selection for the Johnnie walker this week as the Barclays kicks off the FEX Ex playoffs this week also. There is plenty of value in this event with Tiger somehow leading the betting! Two I do like are Hunter Mahan & Jeff Overton at 33/1 & 66/1 respectively

TIP 4: 1 pt e/w Hunter Mahan @ 33/1 (Paddypower). Recent winner and loves the big events. Has the game in shape right now to contend.

TIP 5: 1 pt e/w Jeff Overton @ 66/1 (Paddypower): Despite a poor PGA Championship, Overton has posted 6 top 10s in his previous 11 starts. Ultra consistent this year and could surprise over the next 4 weeks.

Wednesday 18 August 2010

Czech Open 2010

Bank Balance after US PGA Championship + 192.87


The Birdieclubtipster secured its second winner in 3 events by tipping 55/1 Martin Kaymer to win the US PGA Championship last week bringing the profit for the blog to +192.87 pts. It was a great win by the Dusseldorf native, first of many I think. The balance of the blog now means that the 5% of bank has increased to 9.6 pts, so for a weak field this week in the Czech Republic, delicate consideration is required.Iits 4 picks this week for a total of 9.5 pts investment.

Tip 1: Miguel Angel Jiminez. The Spaniard has won twice on tour this year and is playing in his last tournament before the Ryder Cup team is announced Sunday week at Gleneagles. He co-designed this course so should be familiar with it but its the incentive to win to make the team that inspires the first selection this week. He would be a great assest to the team and this could be his last as a player. 18/1 is good value for a proven winner, his experience will be vital and should be thereabouts come Sunday. 3.5 pts win @ 18/1(Paddypower)

Tip 2: Oliver Wilson has had a mixed season following a minor injury but is still a winner in waiting. Numerous runners-up positions eventually lead to the winners enclosure and he should be well rested for this. 1 pt e/w @ 28/1 (Paddypower)

Tip 3: James Morrison is a player that I have grown to like over the course of this season, already a winner and also lost a playoff at the Open de Espana. He has the game and again in this class of field he can be expected to challenge. 1 pt e/w @ 66/1 (Boylesports)

Tip 4: Fabrizio Zanotti has not had such good season as last but has shown a vast improvement the past few weeks. He did well here last year (different course though) finishing in the top 20.
1 pt e/w @ 80/1 (Paddypower)

Monday 9 August 2010

USPGA Championship

Bank Balance after WGC Bridgestone + 129.12

The final major of the year gets under way on Thursday at Whistling Straits GC, where Vijay Singh won his title in 2004. The Straits course has almost 1000 bunkers on it, so avoidance could be the buzz word in Winsconsin this week. That should mean players who can scramble and keep it straight off the tee with some distance should go well, but the essence once again this year could be on how to play the wind, with wind always a factor along the holes by the lake and also the fear of forecasted wind/rain come Friday & Saturday. The past few weeks, especially in Europe, have seen plenty of wind and Ireland's 3 time Major winner, Padriag Harrington has been playing well in it. Second in Killarney and tied 9th on Sunday suggests Padraig is close to his A game and he will be very comfortable on this "linksy" course this week and is great value @ 20/1 with Paddypower (paying 1/4 odds for 6 places too). He can outgun Rory McIlroy who should also contend but odds are not representing good value in my eyes.
Europe's best player (other than Lee Westwood, who incidently has pulled out due to injury) is Martin Kaymer. The affable German played well last week but could not finding his putting touch, hopefully its saved up for this week, and with odds of 55/1 Paddypower I simply have to take him.
My third selection is Retief Goosen who recorded his 8th top 10 on the PGA Tour this year on Sunday. His reaction to overshooting the 72nd hole on Sunday was very un-Goose like but it tells me the South African wants to win again, has won 2 US Opens on tough courses, had top 5 finish at St Andrews again this year and will be ready for this one this week. He is 35/1 with Paddypower
As I always take an extra selection for a major, the fourth selection for the week is Jeff Overton @ 60/1, again with Paddypower. He ranks 2nd overall on Tour for overall play and was last week at Firestone ranked T2 in birdies, T6 in putting, T7 in greens, and 12th in fairways ! That form can not be ignored especially with his performances the past few weeks with 6 top 10 finishes in 11 tournaments. He tees it up with Darren Clarke who will be comfortable on the course also and Kenny Perry.

USPGA Championship Selections:

1 pt e/w P.Harrington @ 20/1
1 pt M.Kaymer @ 55/1
1 pt R.Goosen @ 35/1
.5 pts e/w J.Overton @ 60/1

Wednesday 4 August 2010

WGC Bridgestone Invitational 2010

Bank Balance after Irish Open +136.12 pts

The action returns to the USA this week(and next) where Tiger Woods normally just turns up and takes home the title and the cash! But its a funny old world and who would have thought 12 months ago that we would be looking at a different Tiger for the event this year ? Tiger has won 7 of the 10 events at Firestone and finished no worse then 4th in the other 3, so the argument is strong in support for Tiger's return to form may happen this week. However, if there had been better putting displays this year, then maybe, but to win the event I am not convinced. He should make top 10 though through experience and least we forget, he simply is the best golfer we have ever seen and could very well excel to quash the hopes of Westwood & Mickelson taking his Number One Status. The course is often advertised as one to need to have gained experience on for one to compete and win. That being the case none have greater form other than Tiger than Jim Furyk. Twice winner on tour this year and 6 top 10 finishes in the event, another top 10 finish last week suggests his game is in good shape and his game will definitely meet the "find fairways & green" strategy requirement this week. Ladbrokes are best priced at 40/1, great value of his calibre and Firestone form.
Last weeks winner in Killarney, Ross Fisher, put up by this blog, could also go well again this week but I dont tend to go for back-to-back winners so on that basis alone I will standaside. The runner-up though, Padraig Harrington showed his game is in good nick and relished the challenge in front of his home crowd and will be excited about this week and next week's PGA Championship and he too has good form here, Ladbrokes again are best priced 25/1 on the Dubliner prevailing which represent value also.
I am a big fan of Martin Kaymer, but until recently was not certain about his US form but his top 10 US Open finish has changed my opinion and he will take a lot of confidence from the phenomonal success of Europeans in the US this year and he will also be looking forward to the next 2 events, he is well rested having not played since St. Andrews , Paddypower are best priced @ 45/1

As the bank increased again last week, a small investment is being made on Stuart Appleby to finish in the top 10 at Firestone. The Aussie wont let his incredible 59 last Sunday get in the way and his temperamant should compliment the increased confidence in his own game for this week, 7/1 Paddypower is great value for top 10 finish in the 80 man field.


WGC Bridgestone Invitational Selections:

1 pt e/w J.Furyk @ 40/1
1 pt e/w P.Harrington @ 25/1
1 pt e/w M.Kaymer @ 45/1
1 pt Top 10 Finish S.Appleby @ 7/1

Wednesday 28 July 2010

Irish Open 2010

Bank Balance after Scandanavian Masters + 115.12

The Irish Open returns to Killarney this week but the curse of the Irish Open regarding weather seems to be still about as strong winds are forecasted the weekend, although they may not actually get as bad as some are predicting. The tree lined course will suit long straight hitters and that should suit favourite, Rory McIlroy, but should the wind get up, the Hollywood man may struggle- his tournament may revolve around his opening round and give him an early chance to see what he has learnt from St Andrews. 8/1 for Rory is too short and represents no value for a player capable of winning every week but has not shown weekly consistentency. Irish golfers have won their home Open twice in the past 3 years (Harrington & Lowry) but other than these the home success has been scarce over the years. Harrington may represent the best value of the Irish lads @ 18/, but I beleive Ross fisher @ 20/1 has the game to come out on top this week as he is flirting with his top game at present and is ready to produce the goods. His long straight hitting and excellent putting can see him take the title. At 20/1 and Paddypower paying 6 places, this is the value bet this week.
I am also sticking with James Morrison who agonizingly came close to a place last week for the blog with a great last round of 67. His putting wasn't great last week in the opening rounds but if he finds hi touch this week he can get up the leaderboard and again with 6 places on offer has to be backed again @ 80/1.
The Irish Open has thrown up some strange winners over the past 10 years or so, so rather than look for another outside bet, I have decided to chance a bet on Thomas Aiken being the first rd leader @ 90/1 (5 places with Betpack). He is out in the first group and has a tendency to either go low in opening rounds only to produce average round in the 2nd. If he starts well this is a value bet and worth chancing.

Irish Open Selections:

1 pt e/w R.Fisher @ 20/1 Paddypower
1 pt e/w J.Morrison @ 80/1 Paddypower
1 pt e/w 1st Rd leader T.Aiken @ 90/1 Betpack

Wednesday 21 July 2010

Scandanavian Masters 2010

Bank Balance after British Open + 121.12


Great performance from Louis Oosthuisen last week winning The Open, Louis often selected by this blog, but unfortunately looked over last week. That's the way it goes but 2 of the 4 selections finished in the top 7 although Martin Kaymers frustrating finish cost the blog a few pts when he finished in a tie for 7th with 3 others.
This week the action comes from Bro Hof Slott Golf Club near Stockholm in Sweden. There is no course form as it only opened in late 2007 but interestingly it is a venue selected by another of the blog's old "favourites", Alexander Noren for his Alex Camp later in the year suggesting he likes the place! This course is the 2nd longest course ever on the European Tour, is surrounded in water and the rough is meant to be tough so scoring should be difficult but should suit the big hitters(those that hit it straight though). As Noren has "knowledge" of the course and is in need of a good week, its 1 pt e/w @ 66/1 (Paddypower). Of the favourites, the two start American attractions should go well- Dustin Johnson & Rickie Fowler. The former hits further than anyone but his odds are just a bit too low to side with him this week. Fowler on the other hand had a good Open last week, amazingly his worse round was Thursdays, but his final rounds of 67-71-67 saw a top 15 placing and he will come on from that. Looking for his first win as a pro it could be this week @ 18/1 - 1 pt e/w (Betpack). My outside bet is for James Morrison, already a winner on tour this year and a beaten playoff runner up, he has gone off form a bit lately but is well rested now and could spring a surprise this week @ 150/1 (Paddypower).

Scandanavian Masters Selections:

1 pt e/w R.Fowler @ 18/1
1 pt e/w A.Noren @ 66/1
1 pt e/w J.Morrison @ 150/1

Tuesday 13 July 2010

The Open 2010

Firstly, the blog was very unlucky not to land a 50/1 place last week when Shane Lowry finished 7th and just 1 shot off the place money. Backed at 200/1, his weak round was Friday's but having had a good score on Saturday he couldn't find just one more birdie to put a smile on my face although his level par round was a good effort in the conditions to be fair to him and only for a pair of 68s from Stephen Gallacher & Raphael Jacquelin (along with Johann Edfors,best of the days) I would have been in the money and rewarded for "keeping the faith". So, do I stick with the young man this week? 125/1 with Paddypower who are paying 1/4 odds for 7 places is very tempting. I was interested in an e/w bet on the top GB & Ireland market where I was informed that he could be got @ 66/1 but best price on offer at present is 45/1.With 2 of my tips to lift the claret jug in this market also, I have relunctantly left him out (4/1 for top 20 is too low).
The two top tips for me this week are in the shape of Justin Rose & Ross Fisher. The former is in excellent form and has good links form although did not play at St Andrews in 2000 nor 2005. He should be entering looking for his 4th win in a row but the "collapse" 2 tournaments ago may heed him well in staying patient & focussed come Sunday Major day. 25/1 is still ok value for the Englishman and I reckon he will certainly challenge. Ross Fisher (50/1 Paddypower) hasn't been at his very best this year, could have won at Turnberry last year, but his short game is in fine shape, and on a course where driving accuracy is not that of huge importance, that side of his game may serve him well. Retief Goosen, (50/1 Ladbrokes) who missed cut last week and I put it down to the weather, has not finished tournaments off well lately, which is a slight worry but his 9 top 15s in The Open is a huge plus for taking a punt this week. Despite 45/1 on offer at Paddypower paying 7 places, the better value is in the win part and Ladbrokes are paying 6 places. (Bound to finish 7th now !!).

As it is a Major I am taking another selection and going beyond my 5% of bankroll rule. This "rule" I have always applied come Majors but to my cost at the US Open I ignored that time round and anyone reading the blog on my US Open selections a few weeks ago will know all too well what happened then....click here for a reminder. So the final selection is a punt on Europe's best golfer....no not Lee Westwood, or McDowell or McIlroy(although I believe the 2 Northern Irishmen will challenge this week) but Dusseldorf's Martin Kaymer (40/1 Paddypower). Getting back to his best the past few weeks but not closing them out suggests he is keeping a win to the right moment (lets hope anyway). A top 10 finish at Pebble Beach also suggests he is well capable of challenging for a Major that he ineviteably will win some day and that day could be soon !

So what of Tiger Woods and his compatriots who have dominated the Open in recent years? St Andrews should play into their hands and Tiger himself is gunning for a hat-trick of St Andrews Opens.Normally I would say Tiger would win and this year his best two showings have been at Augusta & Pebble Beach which points to the fact that Tiger can excel at a Major despite all his "troubles". However, I am confident that this week won't be his either and this is based on the fact that too many players are playing so well at the moment. Europeans will be confident following Graeme McDowells victory last month and tiger wont have a chance to put his aura on the event. Phil Mickelson is not even being considered, has terrible Open record and didn't fancy the rain last week in Loch Lomond either. Ernie will go well but he may "try too hard" again this week, had his chance to win at Pebble Beach.Of the other contenders,Stricker has good Open form and comes in off the back of a win, Ryan Moore is playing well so is Sean O'Hair, Zach Johnson even Heath Slocum has spent 3 weeks in Europe now might go ok but the selections are taken this week based on their home form and liking for links. I didn't mention Padraig Harrington.....he could win his 3rd jug in 5 years no problem at all...and it wouldn't surprise me, 25/1 a good price too....but I will stick with "my team for 2010"

Good luck !

British Open Selections

1 pt e/w J.Rose @ 25/1 (Paddypower 7 places)
1 pt e/w R.Fisher @ 50/1 (Paddypower 7 places)
1 pt e/w R.Goosen @ 50/1 (Ladbrokes 6 places)
1 pt e/w M.Kaymer @ 40/1 (Paddypower 7 places)

Wednesday 7 July 2010

Loch Lomond Scottish Open 2010

Bank Balance after Open de France + 117.32

A blank last week after a decent good spell but another strong field have assembled this week and the winner could come from anywhere! A week before the Open, its difficult to pick the winner and with weather forecast predicting some wind it would tend to point towards more of the established players. Mickelson starts as favourite just ahead of Els, who has won twice here but the prices are too short at 10s & 12s respectively. I tipped Retief Goosen recently and he put in good rounds again last week and is a fancy of mine for next week also, so I do expect him to challenge this weekend and he can be got at 25/1 with Boylesports.(paying 6 places)
Looking for the value, Oliver Wislon is still looking for his first win and this could be his week. Ever consistent he has the game for this course and at 60/1 (Betpack) he too is the selection list.

I have to take Shane lowry for the 3rd week running. He has been a bit unlucky with his scorecard in the last two weeks and was actually at -5 after 10 holes last Friday when he produced back to back double bogeys before recording a bogey at the last which meant he missed the cut by a shot. He can go well here as he is playing very well. 200/1 on offer means he cannot be left out.(Betpack)

Scottish Open Selections:

1 pt e/w R.Goosen @ 25/1
1 pt e/w O.Wilson @ 60/1
1 pt e/w S.Lowry @ 200/1

Wednesday 30 June 2010

Open de France 2010

Bank Balance after BMW International Championship +123.12

The fields continue to get stronger each week on the European Tour as the season hots up. With The British Open just a few weeks away, getting into form is crucial for the potential challengers not to mention Race to Dubai points. This week sees the action at Le National GC outside Paris, straight driving a necessity and a tough mental attitude requirement to finish out over the closing holes. Last year Martin Kaymer beat Lee Westwood in a playoff after the Englishman dumped his ball in the water. Ian Poulter was looking like the winner until a cameraman "upset" him and his temper took its toll, but Poults record on this course is excellent and if he can focus on his game rather than the media and "unruly" fans, he can win this week @ 27/1 (betpack).
There are many to consider this week who could go well. I fancy the chances of Rory McIlroy (22/1), Adam Scott (50/1), Karlsson(40/1), Cabrera (55/1) not to mention Kaymer (18/1) Schwartzel (22/1) and Fisher (25/1) and its the latter that I have relunctantly left out to accommodate and outside bet in the shape of Shane Lowry again @ 125/1. The Irishman is hitting a bit of form and but for a poor opening round last week could easily have challenged for the BMW. He is well capable of putting a good couple of rounds together and despite a late start Thursday the gamble is for a solid opening round with early start Friday to yield the birdies!
I am tempted to back Ricky Barnes at the AT & T in the USA this weekend rather than take one of the above mentioned as an extra interest in France purely because Barnes has recorded so many top 10s this year surely he will win soon and at 40/1(Boylesports) it could be this week.


Alstom Open de France Selections:

1 pt e/w I.Poulter @ 27/1
1 pt e/w S.Lowry @ 125/1


AT & T Selection:

1 pt e/w R.Barnes @ 40/1

Wednesday 23 June 2010

BMW International 2010

Good field assembled for the BMW International this week and its an event artin Kaymer will be expecting to go well in having won it in 2008 and hitting form lately by finishing in a tie for 8th at Pebble Beach, but at odds of 12/1, whilst not afraid to take the skinny odds, I will not back him this week in a field that includes Els,Casey, Karlsson, Fisher, Schwartzel, Jiminez and Garcia. Instead I will opt for Charl Schwartzel who does grab his share of birdies and this is a low scoring tournament and hope that Ross Fisher will ignite his season this week on a course suited to his game. Shane lowry is still overpriced at 150/1...its getting near time to defend his Irish Open, he shot course record at Sunningdale for British Open Qualifier couple of weeks ago and is the sort of player than can shoot low scores, whether he can maintain it over 4 rounds as will be required this week remains to be seen but the odds are great value.

Bank Balance after US Open + 121.12 pts

BMW International Selections:

1 pt e/w C. Schwartzel @ 20/1
1 pt e/w R.Fisher @ 28/1
1 pt e/w S.Lowry @ 150/1

Tuesday 15 June 2010

US Open Pebble Beach 2010

Its a return to Pebble Beach for this years US Open, a full 10 years on since Tigers amazing 15 shot victory when last played there. That sort of fact would normally trigger me to look at the betting without Tiger market but such is the fall from grace in Tiger's world he has to be taken on. With Channel 4 set to broadcast revelations over a possible love child on British TV on Thursday night, Tigers focus will be disturbed and he may struggle to make cut here.
Also, unlike last year,where the players who went out late Thurs and early Friday, got a huge advantage, the weather forecast is so good with wind at a minimum this week, players will be at a level playing field. That said, the groupings are interesting. Rory McIlroy out with Ryo Ishikawa with Tom Watson to put manners on them, Adam Scott with Ogilvy & Allenby (all-Aussie), Goosen with Furyk & Cabrera (all recent winners), Watney with Mahan & Barnes, Duval with Lehman & Curtis (British Open winners),and Westwood with Els & Woods. I like three of these groupings- the All-Aussie grouping should mean nerves will settle quicker and conversation should be pleasant, all 3 should go well. But the Goosen group has me very interested. Its a great group for the South African looking for his 3rd Open. Having just returned from injury at last week's St Jude Classic where he posted 3 68s after +2 opening rd. Playing partners are crucial in majors and in the shape of Furyk & Cabrera he wont be sidetracked but focussed on scoring and at 50/1 (Ladbrokes) paying 5 places its 1 pt e/w on a player who has the patience and putting game to prevail here this weekend. I have been watching Ricky Barnes a bit the past few weeks and his ball flight may suit this course and I can see him going well. He has posted 5 top 10s this season from 16 starts and its this market that I will have 1pt @ 9/1. At 100/1 and paying 6 places .5 pts e/w also is invested with Betpack as i like the grouping, Watney is leading scrambler on Tour this year and Mahan is big game player so the group should bring each other along. Ernie Els has to have a chance, two tour wins this season already although disappointing Masters but I would have preferred him not to be playing with Tiger but he's seen it all and he shouldn't be distracted by South Africa's exploits back home in the World Cup (Uruguay may end their involvemnet on Friday). Lee Westwood should be favourite- outstanding form at present, winner last week and great US Open form. I want him to win it but at 12/1 I don't think its great value. (always felt this was his best chance of major - the US Open)

Of the others, Lefty should be up there, has great record on the course, pressure to win back to back majors though could tell. Stricker has the game but has he got the bottle come Sunday? Its 40 years since a European last won, Lee Westwood could end that just like he became the first European to win in Memphis last week, but I dont think Europe's cream are playing particularly well at present apart from Like Donald but this tournament and course is not "the Plodders" forte so I am overlooking him. Padraig Harrington showed no side effects from recent surgery in his opening rd last week, BUT..he then just slipped further and further down the field. But he is the type to have refocussed for the major this week and could contend but I dont think he is near his A game just yet. Of the Europeans I think can surprise is Graeme McDowell. Its a hard call to say who is the most confident- Poulter or McDowell but the Portrush man performs great stuff when in confidence/form, and he certainly is, following his win at Celtic Manor 2 weeks ago and Pebble Beach will suit him. ( I would back Graeme if bank would allow extra bet @ 66/1).


Bank balance after Open de Portugal + 119.12

US Open Selections:

1 pt e/w E.Els @ 28/1 (Boylesports 6 places)
1 pt e/w R.Goosen @ 50/1 (Ladbrokes 5 places)
.5 pt e/w R.Barnes @ 100/1 (Betpack 6 places)
1 pt win TOP 10 Finish R.Barnes (Betpack)

Wednesday 9 June 2010

Estoril Open de Portugal- 2010

A very weak field for this weeks event in Portugal which is a bit disappointing following the blogs winner in Graeme McDowell last Sunday at Celtic Manor. The favourite this week is Chris Wood, who was tipped by the blog in Wales, but having opened as the first round leader he faded badly suggesting that he may be knackered and therefore find no value in backing him this week at such low odds. In fact I have found it difficult to find a good wind player in the field who could win at good odds and could eventually only narrow it down to Canizares, Colsaerts & Bjorn, but is the Spaniard I will put up this week. The young man should have the game to excel here, especially in the wind and as the weather forcast is promising VERY WINDY conditions have omitted Colsaerts from my selection process. The Belgium, along with Jamie Donaldson, have been ultra consistent the past 2 months but this may not be their week. As Alejandro is out early enough on Thursday morning too, I am putting him up for 1st rd leader also @ 25/1 (Boylesports). Canizares best odds are 15/1 with Betpack but its a win only bet of 2pts this week for the blog.

As this blog put up Brian Gay to win the St Jude Classic last year, which he duly obliged, I have had aquick look at the field for this weeks event and actually feel its between Gay, Heath Slocum & David Toms. As Gay has excellent form here (not as proficient tho as Toms) , I will be backing Gay again to defend @ 25/1.

Bank Balance after Wales Open + 125.12

Open de Portugal Selections:

1 pt e/w A.Canizares 1st Rd Leader @ 25/1
2 pts WIN A.Canizares @ 15/1

St Jude Classic Selection:

1 pt e/w B.Gay @ 25/1

Wednesday 2 June 2010

Celtic Manor Welsh Open

The tour returns to the UK this week, which begs me to ask "surely the golfers must voice their opinion about unnecessary travel to the UK to Spain back to UK and so on ?" Granted sponsorship and money dictate, but as the uropean Tour grows in strength, the schedule would have to be looked at to create an Iberian swing, Middle East swing, Celtic swing, Mainland Europe swing etc? It could mean more of the top players would play more events, the flipside of this though,is that I believe the Tour is getting stronger in that the young breed get a chance to excel more which instills confidence in their play meaning a bright 10-20 years ahead for the tour. Anyway, onto the selections for this week.
Luke Donald starts favourite again this week which is justified, which means I feel compelled to comment on last weeks blog where I said Donald couldn't win! I was so wrong and hats off to "The Plodder" , it was the perfect way to get over the disappointment of Wentworth. That said he was 12/1 in the betting whereas McDowell returned 10/1 for the place which was a better bet which resulted in this blog's profit reach the +100 pts again.Again though,Donald wont be backed at those odds for back to back victories although it would not surprise me, confidence is half the game on tour and he is full of it now. So can be said of McDowell, who is improving every week, he had a mediocre Saturday last week but showed the fighting sprit on Sunday and I think he has a shout again this week. He is 22/1 which is good value for a player in form but better value is in Chris Wood @ 28/1. The young Englishman comes into this event in great form and this event, like the BMW PGA 2 weeks ago, has produced a number of first time winners and it could be his turn this week. the added factor of the course being the venue for the Ryder Cup adds to the appeal, surely Monty is following the future star closely already this year. Another young talent is Northern Ireland's, Gareth Maybin who like his fellow countryman, Darren Clarke, posseses a great iron game and can go well here. At 70/1 he has to be taken.
The 3 selections are taken despite the threat of Kaymer(no form yet),Fisher (ready to kick on?),Jamie Donaldson (numerous top 10s already this year and home Open this week), Rhys Davies (Welsh expect?) and Francesco Molinari who probably is the most consistent this year...The bookies have them too low for my liking so the 3 nominated get the nod.


Bank balance after Madrid Masters = + 101.62

Celtic Manor Selections:

1 pt e/w C.Wood @ 28/1 (paddypower)
1 pt e/w G.McDowell @ 22/1 (paddypower)
1 pt e/w G.Maybin @ 70/1 (Betpack)

Wednesday 26 May 2010

Madrid Masters 2010

Please note change in price taken for G.McDowell- bet placed with ladborkes @ 40/1 as opposed to PP @ 30/1 (post updated from this morning)

Luke Donald provided this blogs 5th 2nd placing this season last week at Wentworth but it was a great opportunityfor for both Donald and the blog missed, as just one birdie on either of his final two holes would have been enough. Donald is favourite with most bookies this week but I doubt he can lift himself to go and win on Sunday, its over 4 years since he last won. Sergio has NOT been in great form but will relish being home but he's too short for a man with little form. Martin Kaymer was rusty in his opening round last week and its best to observe this week especially at odds of 16/1, but he is of such quality that it would not surprise me if he won this week, but the price is just a bit skinny(20s and i would be investing).
Graham McDowell on the other hand, is gradually finding some form,just in time too as the big events draw nearer and he is the e/w bet this week in tandem with james Morrison who is in excellent form having won the US open qualifier on Monday (he did miss cut at Wentworth though). At odds of 30/1 & 80/1 respectively, these are the two selections taken this week.
I have opted for a 1 pt e/w bet on the 1st rd leader again this week following the successful bet on James Kingston 2 weeks ago and this is on Thomas Aiken, based on the tee time - 3rd group out. he is 66/1 on Betpack.

Bank Balance after PGA Championship + 96.62

Madrid Masters Selections:

1 pt e/w T.Aiken 1st rd leader @ 66/1 (4 places)
1 pt e/w G.McDowell @ 40/1 (Ladbrokes)
1 pt e/w J.Morrison @ 80/1 (Betpack)

Wednesday 19 May 2010

BMW PGA Championship 2010

The Europeantour cranks up a gear this week with the best line-up of the year apart from the Open. The newly revamped West Course means oustpoken Padraig Harrington tees it up this year having sidestepped the event the past few years due to "awful greens" as well as one or two other players. Sadly, Retief Goosen has had to remain on the injured list but his compatriots are sure to go well this week, indeed, its Ernie Els that all the attention will be on as it he who was given the task to redesign the course! "The Big Easy" loves Wentworth, multiple matchplay winner here, he is playing very well and had another strong finish last week in Texas, but its the attention regarding his involvement in the course that makes me want to leave him out of my selection process this week.
They say "beware the injured golfer!" and there are a number teeing it up with firm prospects of succeeding come Sunday afternoon. Padraig himself will take to surgery next Tuesday for a "small procedure" on his right knee before returning for the St Jude as a warm up for the US Open so he may just test himself to see how he can challenge come weekend, but given his feelings towards Wentworth the past few years he may just come up short, and its the tournament winner I am looking for this week. Ian Poulter is also suffering with his neck and one I was considering for the event, and Paul Casey, defending champ, likewise is returning from injury so again I will opt to leave them be.Luke Donald is a player in excellent form and his rare appearance back in Europe may become memorable. His game is well suited to this course and he could be the champion, and he is one of my two main selections this week at 25/1.
My main selection therefore is Martin Kaymer, for me the best young player on the European Tour at present and this course is right up his alley, with some fine performances the past couple of years also at this tournament. He hasn't done too well in the US, but seems to excel back in Europe and the 20/1 on offer is a great price.
Of the favourites, Lee Westwood is being branded a choker on some blogs, and although I disagree with that tag, the thoughts will surely start to enter his mind and at 11/1 to prevail I dont think these are value odds for such a class field, same of Rory McIlroy, the sensational victory at Quail Hollow has put a bit a pressure on him but also given him renewed confidence and although I fancy the Ultserman to go well, 12/1 is not great value.
Local pro, Ross Fisher came so close to winning this last year, I would love to see him win this week, but his odds are too skinny for a man looking to kick start his season. He will be happy to be at home while he plays this week and I'm sure he will be targeting a top 10 finish himself and he has a great advantage of playing the opening two rounds with Els & Rhys Davies, 2 players that will be steady enough so he can gauge his own game against.
My 3rd selection this week is to have a small interest in a top 20 finish @ 20/1 on Jeppe Huldahl, who does tend to go well in the occassional event and can surprise this weekend in a tournament that either produces a shock winner or favourite winner. He has had some decent enough showings already this year, albeit in weaker fields, but he is improving and can sneak a top 20 finish.

Bank Balance after Iberdrola Open + 94.37 pts

BMW PGA Championship Selections:

1 pt e/w M.Kaymer @ 20/1 (Betpack.com)
1 pt e/w L.Donald @ 25/1 (Betpack.com)
1 pt Top 20 finish Jeppe Huldahl @ 20/1 (Paddy Power)

Wednesday 12 May 2010

Iberdrola Open

A bit frustrating last week after Alejandro Canizares could only manage to finish tied 10th having been joint leader after 8 holes of his 3rd round. The amount of bogeys back to back, indeed 3 in a row both Thursday & Friday, seemed to be his undoing. Alas, having stated that he was coming into form it was a good bet nonetheless which came up just short. Same with James Morrison the week before when he was beaten in a plaoff, just coming a bit short lately. In fact, the Englishman's 2nd spot was this blog's fourth runner up in 9 events ! The winner can only come soon and the Pula Course this week in Mallorca may just provide that, not in the shape of Canizares but that of fellow countryman, Jose Manual Lara @ 28/1. His game should suit this short course and locals tend to go well in Mallorca. Being a windy enough track, I have also taken a punt on the Korean, Seung-Yul Noh @ 28/1 also. he won recently at the Malysian Open,(windy week) and has shown great promise and this is the kind of field (mediocre in fairness) that he could shine. The 3rdselection this week is South African, James Kingston @ 80/1. He does tend to be a steaky player, although he missed the cut badly last week, he has had two top 10s in 8 events this year. He is out early enough tomorrow too, and its a punt on first rd leader also for the 45 yr old @ 60/1.

Bank Balance after Italian Open +50.37

Iberdrola Open Selections:

.5 pts e/w James Kingston 1st rd leader @ 60/1
.5 pts e/w James Kingston @ 80/1 (Ladbrokes)
.5 pts e/w JM Lara @ 28/1 (Boylesports)
.5 pts e/w SY Noh @ 28/1 (Boylesports)

Wednesday 5 May 2010

McIlroy for Sawgrass- 4 for Italy

Its almost incredulous that the very weekend (or pre-weekend) that Tiger Woods produces his worse display for years, Ryo Ishikawa, 18 years of age and Rory McIlroy, aged 21 (yesterday) the pretenders to Tiger's No 1 throne in the future, produced some stunning golf last Sunday to win their prospective tournaments with an astonishing 58 & 62 respectively. Now it could be argued that Rory's 62 was better in a better class of field and better course,but a 58 is a 58 afterall and one can imagine the hype when both players tee it up in the same tournament soon. As for Rory, this is a kid that excels on confidence, whipping the big guns last week by playing the weekend in -16 at Quail Hollow can only mean 22/1 for the players (Bet Pack) is a steal. 1 pt e/w is the bet of the weekend.
Kevin Na is 2nd tip for Sawgrass and at 80/1, paying 6 places with Paddy Power, a player who has great form at The Players and has been in decent form lately and is worth .5 pts e/w also.

In Italy, pressure is on Edoardo Molinari to win on home soil having elected to play his national Open , whereas his younger brother, Francesco has opted to take his chance to play the Players. Chances of a repeat home win following Alvaro Quiros winning in Spain last week seem to be good with all the bookies as he starts favourite but I have selected 4 that I simply can't ignore for various reasons other than the odds being quoted. Alejandro Canizares is a player due to win and his form is excellent the past two months and is climbing the leaderboards and the hope is that he will start with a good opening round being in the 2nd group out and that he can take advantage of the soft greens. Thomas Aiken is taken at .5 pts e/w simply because I have to "keep the faith" with a player that will either shoot low or shoot high on any given week. I am backing James Morrison again this week following his play-off defeat last week, he is still at 33s but this is a player improving week by week and could be a star in the future and likewise with mcIlroy, confidence is key to playing well. My 4th tip is Simon Dyson @ 40/1. This is a player that seems to thrive on tournaments like this one as the field would not be considered a great one and the odds are just too good to be ignored.

Players Championship Selections:

1 pt e/w R.McIlroy @ 22/1 (1/4, 1-6)
.5 pts e/w K.Na @ 80/1 (1/4,1-6)


BMW Italian Open Selections:

1 pt e/w J.Morrison @ 33/1
1 pt e/w A.Canizares @ 35/1
1 pt e/w S.Dyson @ 40/1
.5 pts e/w T.Aiken @ 45/1

Thursday 29 April 2010

Westwood to shine at Quail Hollow

Lee Westwood is my selection to come out on top at Quail Hollow @ 20/1.

Have been put off Anthony Kim having learned of a thumb injury !!


1 pt e/w L.Westwood @ 20/1

Wednesday 28 April 2010

Open de Espana

Just 1 selection for the European event this week and I have that interest in James Morrison @ 80/1. the Englishman is well rested now and is playing very well this season and see no reason why he can't go on and win again. I was tempted to take the older of the Molinari brothers, Edoardo as well but I fancy a couple at Quail Hollow in the USA and will post those tips early Thursday morning.


Open de Espana Selection:

1 pt e/w James Morrison @ 80/1 (www.betpack.com)

Wednesday 21 April 2010

Zurich Classic of New Orleans

As the bad run continues, (Noren tied 8th with a pile of others last week) and Karlsson decided to drop 3 shots on his last 2 holes at Hilton Head, the frustration has led me to take the decision that I wont be betting on European Tour events in Asia anymore- the fields are usually of unknown quality (although this week there is a strong line-up and the temptation to back Kim @ 11/1 is strong) and I have no luck in them. The next few weeks sees the tour back in Europe with some good events in store so I will revert back to Europe next week.

So for this week its just 2 selection @ .5 pts e/w on Bubba Watson @ 40/1 and Graham Delaet @ 100/1, the latter I know nothing about really only that the Canadian is one to watch out for and has been hitting form lately.

New Orleans Classic selection:

.5 pts e/w B. Watson @ 40/1
.5 pts e/w G.Delaet @ 100/1

Thursday 15 April 2010

verizon Heritage

With such good odds on offer for Robert Karlsson at Harbour Town (100/1) I have opted for 1 pts e/w on the amiable Swede this week. he is on way back to full fitness & form following injury last season and this price may not be available again this year and represnets great value for this week.

Verizon Heritage Open Selection:

1 pt e/w Robert Karlsson @ 100/1

Wednesday 14 April 2010

Volvo China Open 2010

After yet another near miss last week with Lee Westwood finishing 2nd in The Masters, the European Tour heads for Suzhou Jinji Lake GC in China. The golf club consists of 27 holes and the 18 selected for this week will be the Wetlands course for the first nine holes and the Links course for the back nine. It will be a tough test for all and without the benefit of any course form you may do well to keep good links players on your side. To that end I have decided to take a punt on Thomas Bjorn who seems to be getting better each week and the great Dane loves Links! The fact that he is on offer at 66/1 makes my selection easier. Others in the frame are Peter Lawrie who has been in great form lately and the Dubliner will be well used to playing links as will his compatriot Shane lowry who won his home open last year at Baltray Links in Ireland. Peter & Shane can be backed at 45s & 100s respectively. I passed over Richard Finch for a top 10 finish in Spain recently and I am tempted to back him at 40s with Bodog (www.bodog.com) but I dont have an account with them yet and prefer to wait until the bank improves before doing so. Lets hope the decision to leave him out this week proves to be correct. My frequent selection, Alexander Noren, is available at 50s and its this price that makes it hard to ignore him despite his recent injuries.

Volvo China Open Selections:

.5 pts e/w T.Bjorn @ 66/1 (www.betpack.com)
.5 pts e/w P.Lawrie @ 45/1 (www.betpack.com)
.5 pts e/w A.Noren @ 50/1 (www.betpack.com)
.5 pts e/w S.Lowry @ 100/1 (www.betpack.com)

Wednesday 7 April 2010

US Masters - 2010

Its time for Augusta and the reappearance of Tiger Woods. Over the years we have learned never to write off Woods or indeed back against him. The Bookies seem to agree as the biggest offer on woods winning his 5th jacket is 6/1. Normally for the majors and this one in particular, I dive into the betting without Tiger market but I'm not convinced that Tiger can win this week. Whar we have learned is that he is human (well, we knew this anyway, but that he does make mistakes and boy,what clangers he has made recently!). I believe he should have played Bay Hill prior to the Masters, to get the spectator pressure off his back although that said i am really surprised that he has returned so soon. He may just go out and play a great tournament, but he is under so much mental pressure this week, with both on & off course behaviour, that he will be under such scrutiny I reckon that it will add a shot a day onto his scorecard. I don't believe Woods can keep this all bottled and convert it to motivation/willpower to win....it would be some story but there are guys chomping at the bit to win this week.

Ernie Els has to be the favourite- 2 wins already this year and a nearly man at Augusta, he will be revved up for it this week , and best odds of 16/1 Ladbrokes are tempting. At this end of the market the players that I really do think can win are Retief Goosen, Lee Westwood & Padraig Harrington alongside Els. Between Els, Schwartzel & Oosthuizen its been a great start to 2010 for South african golfers and i see no reason why the "Goose" cannot prevail this week. He is in great form and possess probably the next best record at Augusta other tham Woods & Mickelson. Ladbrokes again are best odds at 25/1 and therefore this is my number one bet this week. I will also have e/w bets on Westwood & Harrington as they are great consistency in the past 2 years of majors and both have gone well at Augusta in the past few years. Last years runner-up and top 10 finisher in 2007, Chad Campbell as had 3 top 25s this year and really goes well at Augusta and has to be taken at e/w or top 10. 80/1 best odds for the win but 13/2 with www.betpack.com has to be taken as the sensible bet. others to consider must be Paul Casey, Hunter Mahan, Lucas Glover (odds of 125/1 cannot be ignored) and former winner Mike Weir & Zach Johnson who both have decent form lately. Phil Mickelson may well win his 3rd jacket but I don't think he has been playing enough lately so will leave him out of my selection process this week. I am opting for Mahan over Campbell purely because Mahan looks like a future Major winner and its just one of "those feelings" !

US Masters Selections:
1 pt e/w R.Goosen @ 25/1 (www.ladbrokes.com)
1 pt e/w L.Westwood @ 20/1 (www.ladbrokes.com)
1 pt e/w P.Harrington @ 20/1(www.ladbrokes.com)
1 pt e/w H.Mahan @ 60/1 (www.betpack.com)
1.5 pts Top 10 finish C.Campbell @ 13/2 (www.betpack.com)

Thursday 1 April 2010

Shell Houston Open

After more frustration last week when Richard Finch finished in the top 5 not to mention the top 10, I had selected Rafael Cabrera-Bello at big odds over the Englishman, as mentioned in last weeks post. I was tempted to have a break altogether this week and keep next bet to next week's Masters but as the field for the Shell Houston Open is quite strong I feel its a good betting tournament. Surely, the "Big Easy" can't win again this week ? Padraig will be toning his game for Augusta and he may not necessarily want to win on Sunday. Martin Kaymer is top quality golfer who on the other hand is trying to make a mark on US soil and having based himself in Arizona this year, he may just be up for it this week as he tests his sharpness for next week. At odds of 25/1 across most bookies he is my number one bet.
Charl Scwartzel, 50/1 is great value for agolfer in the best form of his career. Odds are value due to this being a PGA tour event but he has renewed confidence and is worth a punt at these odds purely based on form. he is big hitter which is crucial this week (think its crucial every week in the US).
A small outside wager is also suggested for Carl Pettersen to finish in the top 10 @ 12/1. The Swede has been in good form lately and may go well enough to finish in the top 10.

Shell Houston Open Selections:

.5 pts WIN Martin Kaymer @ 25/1
.5 pts e/w C.Schwartzel @ 50/1
.5 pts Top 10 C.Pettersen @ 12/1

Wednesday 24 March 2010

Open de Andalucia

A reduction (3/4) on the place money for Aiken last week as he tied 3rd with 3 others. Not to despair, its a collect but Aiken yet again cant challenge Sunday. The man needs to get his maiden win before he can kick on and challenge more and become more consistent. He is 33/1 this week but I will avoid him as the odds are not good value for a player who blows hot & cold until that win comes. Alexander Noren is 40/1 this week, these odds are excellent for a player of his calibre for this quality field. He needs a good start and tees off in the afternoon day one with Tomas Bjorn & Peter Lawrie, two players who will be steady enough. Hopefully he will be going out knowing what a first round score will be good enough to leave him positioned for Fridays 08:40 tee time.
Rafael Cabrera-Bello a native of the Canaries can go well this week also and at 150/1 (www.paddypower.com) its the minimum stake e/w. this selection is taken over a top 10 ten finish bet for Richard Finch.

I am also having the minimum stake on Seán o'Hair for the Arnold Palmer Bay Hill Invitational this week @ 28/1. This is a younger golfer growing in confidence and a player I expect a great season from.

Open de Andalucia Selections:

1 pt e/w A.Noren @ 40/1
1 pt e/w R.Cabrear-Bello @ 150/1

Bay Hill Invitational

1 pt e/w S.O'Hair @ 28/1

Wednesday 17 March 2010

Trophee Hassan II

The European Tour returns to Morocco this week for a Pro-am event. Whilst I don't normally like these events, its good to have a "European"event back on the horizon following recent World championship events. A Former winner in Morocco, Peter Hedblom is the type of player that can excel any given week and he is one of the selections this week at 50/1 (www.betpack.com). Thomas Aiken is selected once again on the basis that the strength of the field is not that great and odds of 40/1 are quite good for a man still looking to settle down to some sort of consistency and due this being on African soil he is given a chance this week. I was going to take a punt on Alejnadro Canizares who has been playing well lately but opted for Aiken in the hope that he can kick strat his career this week

Bank Balance after WGC CA Championship + 52.93

Tropee Hassan II Selections

.75 units e/w T.Aiken @ 40/1 (www.paddypower.com)
.75 units e/w P.Hedblom @ 50/1 (www.betpack.com)

Wednesday 10 March 2010

WGC - CA Championship

The second world Golf Championship takes centre stage this week and its a week I am expecting another good "English" showing. Paul Casey is right back in form but I strongly fancy Lee Westwood to shine this week as he prepares for a big 2010. His main goal this year is to win a major and this is the kind of tournament to prepare himself against the world's best. His long straight accurate driving will suit him this week and odds of 25/1 (www.paddypower.com) has me on board. The reigning US Open Champion, Lucas Glover has also showed he likes the big events and his odds of 80/1 are just too big to ignore especially as he is ranked 10th in driving accuracy for 2010.

WGC CA Championship Selections:

1 unit e/w Lee Westwood @ 25/1 (www.paddypower.com)
1 unit e/w Lucas Glover @ 80/1 (www.paddypower.com)

Tuesday 2 March 2010

Malaysian Open & Honda Classic

The European tour returns this week ....to Asia and Malaysia. Its another week with a mediocre field where it is hard to see the winner not coming from either Jaidee, Choi, Hansen or Clarke so this week I am selecting just one player to make the top 10. A player that has played in this part of the world but who has been in wretched form lately,is Danny Lee. The young kiwi has abandoned his "new swing" having revisited his old coach back in New Zealand. The short course this week with emphasis on hitting greens and putting well, should help him and he enters here in somewhat confident mood. A small stake only at 15/1 for top 10 finish is the select this week.
Due to the quality of the field in Malaysia coupled with the 28/1 odds offered on Padraig Harrington for the Honda Classic, my second selection this week is for the Dubliner to prevail at Palm Beach.Having completed his rest, he will now test his preparations for the Masters next month in an event he has won before albeit on a different course.

Bank Balance after Phoenix open (+68.93)

Malaysian Open : 1 unit Top Ten Finish - Danny Lee @ 15/1
Honda Classic: 1 unit e/w Padraig Harrington @ 28/1

Wednesday 24 February 2010

Phoenix Open

With the European Tour taking a break this week, I will opt once again to have a bet on the PGA Tour. Phil Mickelson is going for his 3rd title at Scottsdale, a course thats suits his left-handed game very nicely and I am very tempted to back him even at 8/1 (www.paddypower.com) A win bet for 1.5 units is the suggestion on the grounds that "Lefty" enters well rested having skipped the matchplay last week and he is back in the state that he learned his trade so I expect him to be in upbeat form. JB Holmes is another fancied to go well over this course, the long hitting should serve him well and odds of 20/1 (www.coral.co.uk) despite being tempted to back Nick Watney at 35/1 (www.boylesports.com)
Ian Poulter is the type of player that exudes such an amazing amount of confidence that he could very well go back to back this week especially if he plays as well as he did last week and both Coral's & Boylesports have him chalked up at 28/1 which seems very generous. Iam tempted to back him but have decided that Phil "is the man" for this raucous gallery at Scottsdale this week. I will also have an eye on Ryan Moore who is not far away from winning shortly but 55s on offer this week are a little bit short for my liking.

Phoenix Open Selections

1.5 units WIN Phil Mickelson @ 8/1 (www.paddypower.com)
.5 units e/w J.B Holmes @ 20/1 (www.coral.co.uk)

Wednesday 17 February 2010

Mayakoba Golf Classic

Finally stopped the rot last week with Barry Lane finishing in the top ten. This week the attention turns to the WGC Accenture matchplay which I will avoid as its difficult to predict a winner over 18 holes never mind over 6 matches! I would like to have a chance on Steve Stricker at 161 but I will opt for a small wager this week on Gerry Kelly at 40/1 at the Mayakoba Golf Classic. Kelly is the sort of player who can shine in a "weakened" field and the odds are quite good for a player of his calibre.

Mayakoba Golf Classic Selections:

.5 unit e/w Gerry Kelly @ 40/1

Wednesday 10 February 2010

Avantha Masters

A somewhat dimisinished field this week with Jeev Milka Singh the highest ranked player in the field starting out as favourite, but again at just 10/1 for a player that has just celebrated the birth of his first child, the odds are not great. Its an ideal chance for Darren Clarke to shine, but this week I am punting on old reliables with potential to do well on a fairly short course. The greens will be tricky but if they are nice & wet it should help the good approach players such as Fabrizio Zanotti especially at odds of 150/1 (www.Ladbrokes.com) despite his very poor start to the season. Mark Brown won on this course last year (Johnnie Walker) and he tees it up with compatriot Danny Lee the first two days so this could be ideal for the kiwi at odds of 80/1. I was tempted to take a punt on Joost Luiten at 66/1 but Mark Brown's odds have swayed the decision. A solitary unit on a top ten finish is wagered on Barry Lane at 22/1 (www.betpack.com)

Avantha Masters Selection

1 unit e/w F.Zanotti @ 150/1
1 unit e/w M.Brown @ 80/1
1 unit Barry Lane TOP 10 finish @ 22/1

Tuesday 2 February 2010

Dubai Desert Classic

Rory McIlroy defends this week in Dubai in a star studded lineup and goes off the 8/1 favourite which is a bit too short for such a line-up. I am in two minds as to who will give him the best run for his money, Martin Kaymer has great form here at the Emirates but Henrik Stenson also has brilliant form on this course the past 4 years. Even though he is just 16/1 this week, he is my main tip this week. Looking for value down the field I will take a chance on Thomas Bjorn, former winner also here and one who likes this course and had a decent enough tournament last week (8th place), so the offer of 100/1 is taken.

Dubai Desert Classic Selections:

1 unit e/w H.Stenson @ 16/1
1 unit e/w T.Bjorn @ 100/1

Tuesday 26 January 2010

Qatar Masters

Thomas Aiken opened well last week in Dubai but again a poor weekend saw him drop right down the placings and to be honest the patience is starting to wane. And so it is I will look at my pool of players for this week. That means Ross Fisher at 28/1, great odds -I simply can't pass up. I will also go with Alex Noren at 50s again great odds for a man I believe will be very consistent this year.
I've missed the boat already this year, I really did fancy Kaymer last week but was put off by the 14/1 on offer and of course Shane Lowry placed at 175/1 (1/4 odds) not to mention Rhys Davies

Again my pool of players to consider this year are:

Thomas Aiken
Martin Kaymer
Ross Fisher
Lee Westwood
Padraig Harrington
Alexander Noren
Rhys Davies
Shane Lowry

Bank Balance after Abu Dhabi +63.43

Qatar Masters Selections:

1 unit e/w R.Fisher @ 28/1 (Paddy Power)
1 unit e/w A.Noren @ 50/1 (William Hill)