Colin Montgomerie keeps British Open hopes alive
Colin Montgomerie’s chances of qualifying for the Open Championship for a 22nd successive year are looking promising after he shot a five-under par round of 67 on the opening day of the Scottish Open.
The Scotsman needs a top-five finish this week at the tournament’s new venue of Castle Stuart to qualify for next week’s Open at Royal St. George’s.
Monty had been looking in even better shape after teeing up on the 18th on minus 6, only for a poor drive to lead him to drop a shot at the last.
The former European Ryder Cup Captain and eight-time Order of Merit winner will be happy enough with his opening round though as he sits just two shots behind the joint leaders – Lee Westwood and Mark Tullo.
Monty’s round was something of an up-and-down affair, something which has become a hallmark in recent years as his consistency has waned.
Commenting on his round afterwards, he said: “When I made eagle I thought I was on to something but then I bogeyed two of the easiest holes. To miss the ninth fairway was a disaster. The thing’s 110 yards wide. I had to hit my second shot backwards.”
Montgomerie carded five birdies and an eagle at the par-5 2nd hole (his 11th) in a round which will have given him the confidence to make a real challenge for that crucial top five spot.
Monty has always been a fierce competitor and a perfectionist who sets himself incredibly high standards. Despite carding one of his better rounds of the year, he told reporters that he was still not completely happy with the outcome.
“I’m disappointed but then if I wasn’t disappointed, I’d give up. I’m here to do well – I’m here to win.”
Many golf fans around the world, including those heading to the Kent coast next week will be hoping that Monty maintains his form during this tournament and secures a berth in the Open. It is certainly a much more interesting and lively tournament with him around.
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