Colin Montgomerie earns potentially final Open appearance: I know Troon well
COLIN MONTGOMERIE is backing himself to do what Tom Watson agonisingly failed to do at Turnberry seven years ago and win a Claret Jug in his 50s.
A major championship has always eluded Colin Montgomerie throughout his career
Montgomerie claimed one of three places on offer at final qualifying this week to earn a fairy tale Open appearance at Troon, where he learned to play the game and is still a member.
“It was probably the last time I would try to qualify for an Open but because it was Troon I just had to give it a go and it happened to work out,” said Montgomerie.
“At Troon, I know my way around the course. I know exactly where not to go because I’ve been in all those places and you have to know where to miss. I do have an advantage there if I can use that knowledge when I am playing.
“The physical nature of the game has changed dramatically over the past 10 years so my best chance of winning a Major is on a running type of course where bombing isn’t the greatest asset. This is my best chance of doing well.
“I don’t think I would feel as confident is it was a US Open, US PGA or even the Masters now.”
The 53-year-old, whose initial target is to make the cut, was going to be at Troon in his capacity as a Sky Sports commentator but will now be on double duty.
“I was hoping somehow I would get to play, as opposed to just commentating on others, so it’s great. I’m excited, thrilled, tense and anxious,” he said.