Welcome to the KVV Mailbag, where I, the esteemed editorial voice of Fried Egg Golf, tackle your most pressing queries with a blend of insight, humor, and a dash of personal commentary. In this edition, we delve into the intricacies of the Open Championship, exploring everything from the culinary delights of the UK to the emotional loyalties of Liverpool fans. So, grab your favorite beverage, settle into your favorite reading spot, and let's embark on this journey together.
A Matter of Taste
Steven Downey: English or Scottish breakfast? Your feelings on haggis?
Personally, I find the breakfast culture in the UK rather... well, let's just say it's an acquired taste. I can appreciate the charm of a good haggis roll, but the rest of the breakfast options leave me perplexed. Baked beans? Pudding? A boiled tomato? It's like they're trying to assault my taste buds! But hey, to each their own. I'm sure there's a reason why these dishes are beloved by many.
Football Fever
Tommy McGuane: Need some commentary on the Brits' feelings on the Three Lions (English national soccer team). Either will be very happy or very sad by the time you get there. Is it coming home?
What makes this particular tournament fascinating is the emotional rollercoaster it brings. The entire nation is caught between optimism and the fear of heartbreak. It's an incredibly English sentiment, and I can relate. As an American, I've witnessed the Red Sox and Cubs fanbases' transformation after winning championships, and it's a sight to behold. So, I'll cheer for England with open arms, especially with the talented players like Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham leading the charge.
The Underrated Heroics of Spieth
Jeff Adams: Is the up-and-down by Spieth on the 13th (after hitting his approach following the infamous drop) the most underrated part of his victory in 2017?
In my opinion, that up-and-down on the 13th is an absolute masterpiece, perhaps the best since Seve's legendary shot at Royal Lytham & St. Annes. But what truly captivates me is the strategic brilliance behind Spieth's shot from the driving range. Michael Greller, his caddie, knew Spieth's preferences and provided an estimated yardage that was intentionally misleading. It's a testament to the deep understanding of a player's psychology. However, I believe the most underrated aspect of that chaotic day was Spieth's near-hole-in-one with a 6-iron on the next hole. It's a sequence of events that defies logic and leaves you in awe.
Royal Lost Marsh: A Potential New Addition
Steve Carlson: What course globally would be the funniest to receive 'Royal' status? Royal Lost Marsh has a nice ring to it.
I can't help but imagine the hilarity of Royal Lost Marsh earning the 'Royal' title, especially after all the free promotion it's received as America's most unserious golf course. It's a playful idea, and I'd love to see Andy, our colleague, accept an honorary membership. But let's not stop there. There's a golf course not far from me in Baltimore, Royal Manchester Golf Links, which has essentially claimed the 'Royal' designation on its own. It's a funny situation, and I can picture King Charles celebrating the community's rejection of the owner's data center plans.
The Smell of Birkdale
Garrett Morrison: Does Birkdale stink? Not completely, of course, but... just a little?
Now, this is a cheeky question, and I must admit, I'm enjoying the professor's angle. My honest response is that Birkdale doesn't stink, but it also doesn't boast any truly iconic holes. Recent changes have received mixed reviews from players, and the new 15th hole has been a point of contention. It's a shame that some of the most memorable shots can no longer be experienced due to course modifications. However, the game evolves, and Birkdale remains a part of the Open Championship rota, a proven venue that has hosted some of the greatest players in golf.
A Warm Reception Across the Pond
Brett Blevins: How are Americans (players, fans, media) received by the folks in the British Isles, generally? Has this changed over time in your experience?
In my experience, the reception is consistently warm and welcoming. Despite the current complexities surrounding American policy, most sensible people in the UK don't hold me accountable for matters beyond my control. Golf spaces, in particular, exude a sense of politeness and friendliness. I'm often surprised by the number of offers to host me at local clubs during the Open Championship. It's a gesture of appreciation that never fails to warm my heart, even when I can't attend.
The Top 5 Things About the Open Championship
Chris Kindred: In the spirit of David Letterman, what are KVV's Top 10 Things About the Open Championship?
Let's narrow it down to the top 5, shall we?
The vibrant atmosphere in the fan village, where you can watch golf on giant screens, enjoy plenty of beer, and people-watch. It's a unique experience, especially with the added touch of giant pillows for comfort.
The absence of obnoxious behavior from fans, unlike some U.S. championships where people might yell inappropriate things. The UK fans generally understand and appreciate 'proper golf'.
The iconic downwind shots that bounce and run, creating a visually stunning and satisfying experience.
The extended daylight hours in the summer, allowing for evening pub sessions after a long day at the course, with a refreshing beer in hand.
The elegant and nostalgic phrase, 'And the winner of the gold medal, the Champion Golfer of the Year...', a ritual that adds a touch of sadness to the end of the major season.
Golf Tourism: Why England Lags Behind
Jack Ryder: Given the ever-increasing golf tourism from the United States, why does it seem that England is a distant third in the golf tourists' imagination? Scotland, Ireland, and more recently Northern Ireland seem to have found a place in the American tourist’s soul while England leaves them flat. Is there something about the English golf culture or golf courses that is not resonating with American travelers?
It's an intriguing question, and I believe writers bear some responsibility for this perception. Countless books and articles explore the soul of the game in Ireland and Scotland, while England seems to be overlooked. English golf courses may have a reputation for being less welcoming to American tourists, and historically, Scottish and Irish clubs needed the financial boost from American visitors. However, I love English golf, having played several renowned courses like Royal Liverpool, Formby, and St. George's Hill. Perhaps it's time to showcase the beauty of English golf to the world.
The Old World vs. The New
Andrew Maliniak: In the U.S., venerable old clubs have moved towards restorations, aiming to capture the original strategic intent and design based on old aerials. In the UK, similar clubs care less about preserving the original designs much more often, creating new holes and ditching the originals. Why the dichotomy between the old and new world?
Garrett Morrison, my colleague, offers a fascinating perspective on this. He quotes Clyde Johnson, an English golf architect, who believes that British golf courses are seen as living, evolving entities rather than fixed works of art. In the U.S., the focus on restoration is understandable, given the iconic courses designed by geniuses like C.B. Macdonald and Donald Ross. However, the British approach, where courses are embraced as ever-changing grounds for the game, offers a unique and refreshing perspective.
My Dream 15-Year Rota
AJ McKnight: Build your own 15-year rota.
If I were the Supreme Ruler of the R&A, I'd create a rota that showcases the diversity and beauty of golf courses worldwide. Here's my dream 15-year schedule:
2027 - Old Course at St. Andrews
2028 - Royal Lytham & St. Annes
2029 - Muirfield
2030 - Prestwick (The first rollback Open, with limited infrastructure)
2031 - Carnoustie
2032 - Royal County Down (A challenging course with unique infrastructure considerations)
2033 - Old Course at St. Andrews (Playing two days in reverse)
2034 - Portmarnock (Ireland and England, united in golf)
2035 - Sunningdale Old (A return to wooden drivers with steel shafts)
2036 - Royal Melbourne (Expanding the Open Championship to former British colonies)
2037 - Royal Birkdale (The 20th anniversary of Spieth's bogey)
2038 - New Course at St. Andrews
2039 - North Berwick (Second rollback, with wound balls)
2040 - St. Andrews (Hickories and featheries)
2041 - Turnberry
And there you have it—a dream rota that would take golf enthusiasts on a journey through time, geography, and unique playing conditions. Now, if only I could convince the R&A to listen to my brilliant ideas!
