Paul Lawrie believes he will ride a rollercoaster of emotions whenhe returns to play the Open Championship at Carnoustie.
The Aberdonian's life changed forever on that famous Sunday eightyears ago.
Lawrie came from 10 shots back - the greatest third-round deficitby anyone to go on to win a Major - with a magnificent four-under 67to force a four-hole play-off with Jean Van de Velde and JustinLeonard, the 1997 champion.
After defeating the Frenchman and the American, Lawrie drovenorth to the Granite City with the famous claret jug on the back seatof his car.
Lawrie said: "When I'm announced on the first tee at that coursewhich is only a hour from my home, I'm bound to be a bit emotionalbecause of the memories.
"I think it would be impossible not to recall what happened in1999.
"Every time I stand on the first tee I become nervous. If anyonetells you different then they are fibbing.
"I'm nervous every tee shot I hit but I'm sure I'll be more thannervous at Carnoustie because of what happened.
"And I'm sure it will be difficult not to relive what happened.
"I'm bound to remember where I was and what I hit on that lastday. What club I hit and where I hit it to. It would only be natural.It will be difficult not to, but that is my goal.
"It's my job to concentrate on taking one shot at a time thisyear.
"I'm going to treat it like any other normal tournament - or tryto.
"It's difficult, but the Open is the tournament you want to win ordo well in. I must get the best bit of my game going that week."
"I've been doing this a long time and I hope I know what to do onthe first tee. It will be a three wood or rescue club down thefairway for me. I'm looking forward to the challenge.
"One thing is certain, it'll be easier than the first tee-shotthat I opened up with at the Ryder Cup at Brookline later that year,I hope.
"You can't get any more nervous than that.
"Everyone was shaking there but I hit a good shot and I think Idid all right."
No comments:
Post a Comment