2005 US Open - Round 4

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 01:34:23

I finished up the U.S. Open with a solid round of 71, one that I was pleased with on many levels. Perhaps the brightest spot was my short game, which was strong, something that I haven't been able to say of late. I chipped in on number 2 for a birdie and sunk one out of the bunker on the back nine.

I probably could have been one or two shots lower as I missed a couple of makeable putts along the way, but overall, I'm pleased with the direction my game is heading. I put a lot of work in this week and in the days leading up to this tournament so I'm glad that I'm finally starting to see some results. And those came on a very difficult golf course.

Pinehurst No. 2 lived up to everything it was supposed to be. The greens were extremely tough and the fairways got very hard, which made it difficult to try and keep the balls on them. I saw too many shots that I thought were well-hit end up in less-than-desirable positions. But the course was most certainly fair. The USGA did a good job of making the course hard but kept it from being unfair. As players, that's all we can ask for.

As I write this, the leaders are just heading out for the final round and it should be a good one. Retief Goosen, whom I've played with on the Presidents Cup team in the past, is just an amazing golfer. He's perfect for the U.S. Open as the demeanor you see on the course is what he's all about. That's what's required in this tournament, patience and consistency.

I think the chasers are equally skilled. I've been impressed by Jason Gore and his game. It shows you that all over the world, on many different tours, there are so many talented players who can get it done and compete in big events.

Next week, I'm going to take some time away from golf for a fishing trip with my father and two brothers. I think it may be just what I need, to get away from golf for a while and just relax. Actually, I won't be getting totally away from the game as the lodge we're staying at has a putting green in front of it and my brothers have been telling me they're going to take me down so I may have to throw a putter in with the fishing rods just to keep them straight.

I'll play next at the Western Open in Chicago and I'm looking forward to seeing if I can keep progressing with my improvements.

As always, thanks for your support.
Mike