Golf: Alker impressed with British Open course

Hamilton golfer Steve Alker can't wait to fly the New Zealand flag at the British Open this week.

Alker tees off on Thursday evening alongside Lee Slattery and Russ Cochran.

He says the Royal Lytham St Anne's course in Blackpool is in great nick.

Alker says he played nine holes today and the course is in great shape so he's looking forward to it.

Tiger Woods has been grouped with England's Justin Rose and Spain's Sergio Garcia.

Defending champion Darren Clarke will play alongside South African Ernie Els and American Zach Johnson.