Scottish Open 2011 - Castle Stuart Links

This years Scottish Open moves to the Scottish Highlands and the fantastic looking Castle Stuart Course. A new venue for the tournament and a links course to get the players in the mood for the Open the following week. Had a quick look at the betting for The Open today and am struggling to see any value in it but have decided there is some value to be had this week in a star studded lineup. Remeber only some bookmakers are paying 6 places this week, one of which is Paddy Power and should you need to open an account with them you can do so by clicking on this link for Paddypower

I am siding with twice Open champion, Padraig Harrington this week who will be hoping to time his run perfectly for a hat-trick at Sandwich next week and he can go a long way to warming up with a win here.He hasn't been playing that badly lately, ok, he cannot put 4 good rounds together but when he does.....he could be a winner and his time is coming. Well suited to this type of course where control and accuracy, not to mention an A short game is vital. 35/1 with Paddypower
I am going Irish again in the shape of Darren Clarke. Darren loves links golf and is quietly going about his business this year, relishes this time of year and is well worth backing at 80/1 with Paddypower.

My third pick this week is Thomas Aiken @ 60/1 with Boylesports who are also paying 6 places. The South African has the first win under his belt and has done well on links courses in the past and could come in under the radar this week. Is an exceptional talent, has an early start on Thursay off the 10th tee which may help him establish a position early.

TIP 1: 1 pt e/w P.Harrington @ 35/1 Paddypower

TIP 2: 1 pt e/w D.Clarke @ 80/1 Paddypower

TIP 3: 1pt e/w T.Aiken @ 60/1 Boylesports