Thanks Nomad, some really interesting information you posted.
Being South African and having followed this tournament for so many years, I would just like to make a few observations.
Firstly, although the course has been lengthened in the past long hitters have had little advantage. Past winners Price,Pavin and Frost examples of this. Accuracy off the tee is what is really vital.
Secondly, for the South African golfers the crowd support and expectation to do well can often turn out to be a big negative, Ernie often complained that he would put too much pressure on himself, and while he is a two time winner I do think Goosen will struggle playing back home again.
Finally, although not a major playing for $2 million dollars takes plenty of nerve.Golfers like Furyk, Harrington, Bjorn and Clarke will surely feel the heat if in contention come the back nine on Sunday. Last year Thomas Bjorn was leading after 10 holes, but could'nt handle the pressure.
Some of Ernie's comments after last years win clearly show how so much money can get to one of golfs wealthiest, "It was probably the most nervous I have ever been. I can probably state that. I have got a lot of respect for Peter Thompson, but I would like to see Peter Thompson?s nerves playing for 2 million dollars. You cannot but think about it. I am sorry, it is just the way it is."
A few of my colleagues will be at Sun City from Tuesday, I will post the Pro-Am scores and any other interesting facts from the course early Thursday morning(UK time).
Colin Montgomerie will be last to arrive, coming in from the US Tuesday evening, not a great way to prepare for the event.
