Welcome back to the KVV Mailbag at Fried Egg Golf, where I answer your questions about golf and other topics. This week, we have a variety of questions, including discussions about the Open Championship, the Three Lions, and the reception of Americans in the British Isles. Let's dive in!
English or Scottish Breakfast?
I love our friends in the United Kingdom, but I don't understand their breakfast culture. I find baked beans and pudding traumatic, and a random boiled tomato assaultive. However, I do enjoy haggis, and a haggis roll at the New Course in St. Andrews was delicious.
The Three Lions and the Open Championship
The Three Lions, the English national soccer team, have a unique relationship with the country. The entire nation is optimistic but also preparing for potential disappointment. I plan to cheer for England in the upcoming football match, and I think it's fascinating that Liverpool fans have divided loyalties, cheering for both the club and the national team.
Spieth's 2017 Victory
Spieth's up-and-down on the 13th hole in 2017 is an underrated part of his victory. It's an incredible shot, and Michael Greller's knowledge of Spieth's preferences is impressive. The most underrated part of the chaos might be Spieth's near-hole-in-one on the next hole, a strange sequence of events that felt like a funeral for the first 12 holes.
Royal Lost Marsh
Lost Marsh should offer Andy an honorary membership, and I'm putting it in print to will it into existence. It's funny when American clubs earn the 'Royal' designation, and I imagine King Charles would be proud if Royal Manchester Golf Links in Mt. Wolf, Pennsylvania, were to turn into a data center, but the community voted it down.
Royal Birkdale
Garrett Morrison's question about Birkdale is cheeky, and my honest answer is that it doesn't stink, but it lacks memorable holes. Recent changes have received poor reviews, and iconic shots can no longer be hit due to course modifications. However, Birkdale is a proven championship venue, and I worry that saying everything stinks might lose the plot.
Reception of Americans in the British Isles
Americans are generally received warmly in the British Isles. I find the English friendly, funny, and self-deprecating. Golf spaces are polite, and I appreciate the offers to host me at their clubs. However, I'm not naive to the harder edge of the country, and I've worked on stories about domestic terrorism.
Top 10 Things About the Open Championship
- Hanging out in the fan village, watching golf on giant screens with beer and people-watching.
- The lack of yelling and understanding of 'proper golf' in the crowds.
- Downwind shots that bounce and run 100 yards after landing.
- The extended daylight hours in the summer, perfect for a beer after a long day at the course.
- The phrase 'And the winner of the gold medal, the Champion Golfer of the Year...', a simple and eloquent ritual.
Golf Tourism and England
English golf courses have a reputation of being less welcoming to American tourists, and writers often focus on Scotland and Ireland. However, I love English golf and have played several courses, including Royal Liverpool and Formby. I'd love to play more courses like Swinley Forest and Rye.
Restoration of Golf Courses
Garrett Morrison provides an insightful answer about the differences between British and American attitudes toward golf courses. British courses are seen as organic, living things, while American courses were built by identifiable geniuses, making restoration easier. However, British golfers don't view their courses as precious works of art, and restoration is less of a priority.
Building a 15-Year Rota
I propose a 15-year rota for the R&A, including courses like Old Course at St. Andrews, Royal Lytham & St. Annes, and Muirfield. It's a fun idea, but I'm the Supreme Ruler, so I can make it happen!
