The roaring, whooping galleries at American courses are a far cry from yesterday's opening round at the New Zealand Open in Paraparaumu. Who says? Tiger Woods, who should know.
The world No 1 praised the courteous, respectful crowds after his opening round 70 yesterday.
What do you do when your putter is letting you down?
Change the grip? Widen the stance? Close your eyes?
Woods had a simple, deadpan response yesterday when, after admitting he had trouble sinking some makeable putts, he was asked how he should rectify the problem.
Catering staff delivering drinks to stations around the Paraparaumu Beach course aroused the attention of the police on the late shift.
The police thought it strange to see a buggy loaded with drinks on the course at 11.30 pm. The food and drink for each day can be delivered only after 6 pm the previous evening. Another caterer had a less comfortable experience when he was hit in the throat by a stray ball while restocking a chiller.
Tough people these caterers - he was back on the job almost immediately.
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It is not every day the NZ Open is compared to one of the majors.
New Zealand professional Stephen Scahill dished out high praise during his fine round of 67.
"I think it's got a real British Open feel to it. The atmosphere and feel of the tournament is as good as any I've played in."
