Tiger must rise to challenge of testing Hills

WITH the obvious exception of Pebble Beach, there is every reason to believe that the USGA has brought its Open Championship to the most spectacular venue on the rota.

The sun came out yesterday, the wind freshened and Shinnecock Hills shone in all its majesty.

The views of the course from the clubhouse area and the grandstands surrounding the 9th and 18th greens were nothing short of awesome and, with very few exceptions, every one of the 156 players was palpably looking forward to what the week might bring, even if some were finding it difficult to express outright admiration for the lay-out.