Up for the Cup
The Champion Golf Trophy, commonly known as the ‘Claret Jug’ is also called, in Scotland, the ‘Auld Mug.’ Presented to the winner of the Open Championship, it dates back to 1872 when it replaced the Challenge Belt. Costing US$37.50, it is now considered priceless it is made of silver, stands 20.75” tall and weighs 5.4lb.
Big Bucks
As well as the US$10.75 million prize fund, the 2019 Open Championship costs at least three times as much to stage, and a considerable profit for the R&A to distribute to the game. Ticket sales account for US$25m, global TV revenue even more, with commercial activity and merchandise, the Open is thought to turnover close on US$100 million.
Bearded Pair
Shane Lowry and JB Holmes
Final pairing on the third day of the 148th Open saw two men who look remarkably alike, a burly, bearded pair – 37-year-old JB Holmes (USA) and Irishman Shane Lowry (32). And both play Srixon. Lowry, 33rd on OWGR, Holmes 55th; neither has won a ‘Major,’ Lowry T2 in 2016 US Open, his rival 3rd in 2016 British Open.
Know the Score
With 156 golfers each playing up to 72 holes at the Open, scores from a 1 to a 14 on one hole Thursday, a small army of volunteers helps keep the score. Electronic and manual scoreboards are throughout the venue, the largest on the 18th and in the media centre.
Who’s the Boss
Luxury golf performance wear brand Hugo Boss is responsible for ensuring that the 148th Open Championship is best dressed ever. Kitting-out 2016 winner of the Claret Jug, Henrik Stenson, the Boss has dressed all 6,000-plus staff and volunteers from top-to-toe, with a range of merchandise for sale in the Open village.
Oh Danny Boy
2016 Masters champion Danny Willett charged back to form on the third day of the Open at Portrush, carding a bogey-free 6-under-par 65, putting himself right in contention ahead of Round 4. But for a 3-over 74 opening round, the 31-year-old Englishman might have been in the lead, but will settle for a run at the title on Sunday.
From Mike Wilson at Royal Portrush
