What a week of golf

Lot's to catch up on.

If you haven't been following the US Open over the weekend, here's what you need to know. Former world No.1, Martin Kaymer lifted his second major in what was a scintillating display of golf. When asked earlier what would be the winning score on Sunday, Kaymer said "+8".

Cool as a cucumber, he carded a -10 total after day 2 and it quickly looked like everyone else was chasing for second place. With a 5 shot lead into the final round, Kaymer cruised his way to victory with a final round score of -1 to win by a mammoth 8 strokes. Rickie Fowler and Erik Compton (who's had not one but two heart transplants) finished tied for second and were the only 2 other players to finish the tournament under par. Which makes Kaymer's win, that much more impressive.

Was disappointed that Phil Mickelson didn't complete the grand slam, which was a shame. But Phil's play didn't spell confidence and after round 2, it eventually settled that this wouldn't be the year.

Reverting back to his conventional grip (from the claw), Phil couldn't get it together and eventually finished +7 for the tournament and tied 28th. Was following the action on the telly and you could tell from his facial expression and body language that Phil was having a tough time on the green. 

At 44, time might not be on his side, but I believe he has what it takes to come back and be in contention again. Let's go Phil!

But in spite of what I said earlier, I was very pleased to see Rickie Fowler finish runner-up. He hasn't won this year, but revamping his swing with Butch Harmon has proved positive in the big events so far. So I am sure we will see more of Rickie in future.

Closer to home, Malaysian Amateur and golfing prodigy, Gavin Kyle Green, became the first amateur to win a Professional Golf of Malaysia (PGM) Tour event (co-sanctioned by the Asian Development Tour) at Vascory Templer Park Championship. At just 21 years of age, he carded a final round of 64 for a massive 11 stroke victory over a field of experienced professionals. Amazing stuff this and am really looking forward to see him turn pro.

In other news, played again on Saturday and no sub 90 score this time round. Back to regular programming it seems after carding a 98 on a day when playing conditions were perfect. Although, there were some positives to take from the game. 

i. Kept the ball in regulation, lost only 2 balls this time (from 2 drives which I pulled to the left and out of bounds, on the same hole too, leading to a cringing 9 on the par 5, 18th hole)

ii. Managed a few pars and a birdie on the par 3, 17th hole, which was nice.

iii. Was hitting my hybrid much more consistently then last week and was still hitting greens in regulation which was good to see. 

The let down funny enough, was the short game. Compared to my last round, the pitching, chipping and putting were off. (pitch shots were fat and even duffed 2 chips, which really annoyed me). Putting wasn't that great either and was duly punished by taking 2 - 3 putts on the green. 

But overall, I can't complain (prior to last two rounds I was carding scores in the 100's) and I am hoping the game will continue to stay consistent when we leave for Thailand this Thursday where we will play two rounds in Pattaya and one in Bangkok. Can't wait.