U.S. Open Notebook: Golfers getting more comfortable with Oakmont

Brandon Tucker,
Senior Writer

OAKMONT, Pa. - Steve Stricker shot a 2-under 68 at the U.S. Open Saturday to put himself within contention but there haven't been as many high numbers as were expected. He thinks players are still learning the golf course.

"No doubt players are more comfortable," he said. "Players are getting used to it and the way it's set up."

Ian Poulter said he noticed the water put on the green overnight by the committee.

"You could see they have given them a little douse of water," he said. "It is playing very fair, too fair to be honest."

Poulter has drawn plenty of attention for his outfits. Today he wore Steelers black and yellow.

"It was a little coincidence. 'Here we go Steelers, here we go!' they were chanting everywhere. It was cool."

Dobbs soaking it in

U.S. Open first-timer Kyle Dobbs missed the cut this week, but that doesn't mean he's going home.

"I could either be in Florida with a bunch of beach bums or at the U.S. Open," he said. "It's a no-brainer."

Sabbatini won't be a guest any time soon

Rory Sabbatini has struggled all week but barely made the cut. He isn't planning on paying a visit to the Oakmont Country Club anytime soon.

"No. I've already played the course a few times too many."

Tiger Woods said yesterday a 10-handicapper probably scores a 100 on this week's course setup. Sabbatini had another estimation of what they shoot.

"Probably a bottle of whiskey."

Goggin plays as a single

Slow play has been an epidemic at Oakmont this week. Many rounds have lasted five hours or longer.

Australia's Matthew Goggin got around in less than three today. The day's first tee time, he passed on a marker to play by himself.

"I actually preferred to play by myself. I like to get in a rhythm. Playing by yourself is great."

June 16, 2007

Brandon Tucker is the Managing Editor for Golf Channel Courses & Travel. To date, his golf travels have taken him to over two dozen countries and over 500 golf courses worldwide. While he's played some of the most prestigious courses in the world, Tucker's favorite way to play the game is on a great muni in under three hours.