Westwood slams Gleneagles greens
by Richard Field, 28 August 2008
Lee Westwood has slammed the greens at Gleneagles which is hosting the Johnnie Walker Championship.
The final three automatic European Ryder Cup spots will be decided on this Perthshire course, where Westwood shot a one-under round of 72 on the opening day.
Gleneagles will stage the 2014 Ryder Cup, but Westwood believes the greens are way below the standard necessary to host this famous team event.
"You can't bring the Ryder Cup onto greens like this," Westwood said.
"They really do need digging up. I'm not a bad putter - I can't remember the last time I three-putted from 18 inches."
Justin Rose, Oliver Wilson [76] and Soren Hansen are battling to stay in the Ryder Cup top 10, while Martin Kaymer [76], Nick Dougherty [73] and Ross Fisher are looking to displace them, and Westwood is sympathetic to their plight on these hazardous greens.
"They are the guys I feel sorry for,” added Westwood who has already qualified for the Ryder Cup.
"Unfortunately this tournament could be won or lost on the greens.
"It's a big deal as it is and you don't want to stand over a three-footer wondering if the ball is going to run straight."
Frenchman Gregory Havret did master the greens though to shoot a five-under-par 68 to claim the clubhouse lead.