Never been a fan of his anyway, Willett and Rose to represent Britain in the 72 hole strokeplay event. Hull and Matthew will take part in the women's event ![/QUOTE] Rory was never going to represent Britain. He stated he would be representing Ireland. It's all academic now anyway as he won't be representing anybody. I learnt a lot listening to his interview and I am sure there are some golfers who aren't very happy with him.
[/QUOTE] It was a surprising interview, to say the least, he actually said after listing those sports "you know, the ones that matter". Maybe because golf has not been historically part of recent olympics that he, and many others to be fair, aren't bothered about it. He also said he wasn't in the sport to grow it but to win championships. At least he's honest.
It was a surprising interview, to say the least, he actually said after listing those sports "you know, the ones that matter". Maybe because golf has not been historically part of recent olympics that he, and many others to be fair, aren't bothered about it. He also said he wasn't in the sport to grow it but to win championships. At least he's honest. The first (in modern times) Olympics golf championship would be a nice one for him to win. Maybe he means, there is no dosh in it for him or nike and therefore it doesn't matter. He has grossly insulted the golfers who are going to Rio to participate. I think somebody said 8 of the top 15 ranked golfers in the world will be there. I lost a lot of respect I had for him unfortunately over this interview.
Aside from Rory's comments I think sports such as golf and tennis which have just been added should be for amateurs to compete for. The Games have been contaminated by greed and don't represent the Olympic Spirit in any way, shape or form these days. In a way this was led by the discredited regime that milked it before it was 'cleaned up'...
Have to say that I actually quite like McIlroys' approach to life away from Golf, he does what he wants to do like having a game of football with his mates, which knackered his ankle last year, or going to watch other sports as a fan. He doesn't come across as someone who listens/does as his corporate backers would prefer him to do........IMO those comments yesterday was a classic foot in mouth moment but it was spontaneous and shows his outlook. Maybe some other golfers are upset and there are no doubt other athletes, sportsmen and women who would love to be there but for some reason their sports aren't considered to be an Olympic event, squash for example which I believe is ludicrous to be excluded when tennis is included, but that shows the corporate greed of those in charge, Squash is not a high viewer sport, but makes great TV with the all glass courts that they use these days.......
2 hours into it and it's Monty on his home course setting the pace despite a double bogey on the 1st hole...
The weather looks like it balance out over the next two days between morning and afternoon tee times. Strong winds expected. Don't worry about leaderboards until Saturday morning. Golfers with a high ball flight are expected to struggle over the 4 days. I expect big hitters with a low ball flight like Stenson, Kaymer and Casey to do well. Golf should only be in the Olympics as an amateur sport IMO. It's just not a priority for most golfers. It's refreshing to hear Rory speak honestly about several issues. He's a breath of fresh air in a sport dominated by individuals who play and live like robots. As a young man soon to be married, he's entitled to put his health and that of his future wife and kids first. If I was lucky enough to be in his shoes I'd do the exact same. Anyway I fly out soon for 3 days in Troon. Yippee
Just overheard John Inverdale having a discussion with someone, maybe Carter, had my kids with me so didn't catch his name. His take on it was that as he knew McIlroy well he felt that his decision to declare for Ireland wasn't one he took up with any great enthusiasm. It was due to the divided nature of allegiance in Ulster and as golf was an all Ireland sport he reluctantly chose them. This decision, he continued, was at odds with how British he feels, and winning a medal for Ireland would not give him the same thrill as say a British hopeful would feel securing one for Britain. Opinions, opinions as they say
I actually think that is part of the reason he chose to pull out of the Olympics and the zika virus was a convenient excuse. Based on his comments I can't see him taking part in the next Olympics either and therefore, he will not have divided loyalties when it comes to who he represents and what he considers to be his nationality. He will continue to only represent Northern Ireland and Ireland at golf. The golfing union of Ireland nurtured his talent as a youngster and he realises that. That's why he chose Ireland, even if he feels British. Remember, many other people from the Unionist community in the North are happy to represent Ireland at boxing, rugby and hockey for example, all of which are all-Ireland sports.
Looking bleak for my picks at the moment. Chappell was -4 after 15,and dropped 4 shots to finish Level Par ffs !
He's rolling back the years. This is as easy as I've seen an open course play,very receptive greens and no wind. I really hope the weather makes this a real test in the next few days !
63 for Mickelson, three clear of the field and an early start tomorrow before the weather deteriorates, he could take some catching...
Hammersmith J- What's your thoughts on Martin Kaymar's chances ?? I've taken a £10 e/w bet from a mate at 40/1......
He played really well today mate,better than I thought he would. If the weather turns nasty,it could make it very interesting. He's started well but there's a long way to go,having said that he's a major winner and won't be overawed if he's in the mix Sunday.We should have a clearer picture of who's gonna be there when it matters after tomorrow's round,so i'll get back to you then !
