Wicked and wonderful Carnoustie

Like most others, I was glued to the 99 Open when Van de Velde ruptured into his now celebrated Carnoustie crash and burn. What is it about a disaster that begs our undivided attention? We all crave the rubbernecking I guess. And just as Oakmont proved itself a tremendous obstacle course for the US Open, Carnoustie has earned a reputation as the toughest venue for the British.

The British Open ranks near the top of my list of favorite events. Not only do I get to watch television coverage throughout the morning due to the time zone issue, but I also enjoy observing how the best in the world transform their high flying bombardment into a ground hugging strategy of scoring.

And then there is the weather. If the wind and rain whip up we get to watch the best-laid plans fly out of control and into oblivion. There's that can't look away from an accident-itis tendency again. The lovely and unexpected result is that The British Open can quickly become anybody's tournament. That's the Carnoustie way, both wicked and wonderful!