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If you’re a really early riser, or just an insomniac then you’re primed and ready watch some golf.
The 148th British Open will tee off at 1am EST at the Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland.
This will be the first time the tournament has been played on this course since 1951.
The course itself dates back to the 19th century, it’s a winding course, and with that area known for its wind, could make it for a challenging venture for the participants this weekend.
With how the PGA changed their schedule, this now the fourth and final major of the year.
Let’s take a look at some of the players who could be hoisting the Claret Jug on Sunday.
The British Open will tee off on Thursday, July 17th, at 1am EST at the Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland for the first time since 1951.
Here are the odds via Sportsline
Rory McIlroy 8-1
Dustin Johnson 10-1
Brooks Koepka 10-1
Jon Rahm 16-1
Tiger Woods 18-1
Justin Rose 20-1
Xander Schauffele 20-1
Francesco Molinari 20-1
Rickie Fowler 25-1
Patrick Cantlay 25-1
Tommy Fleetwood 25-1
Justin Thomas 30-1
Adam Scott 30-1
Louis Oosthuizen 30-1
Henrik Stenson 30-1
Matt Kuchar 30-1
Bryson DeChambeau 40-1
Hideki Matsuyama 40-1
Jason Day 40-1
Paul Casey 50-1
Graeme McDowell 50-1
Matt Wallace 50-1
Tony Finau 60-1
Gary Woodland 60-1
Marc Leishman 60-1
Shane Lowry 80-1
Matthew Fitzpatrick 80-1
Rafael Cabrera Bello 80-1
Sergio Garcia 80-1
Patrick Reed 80-1
Phil Mickelson 100-1
Ian Poulter 100-1
Eddie Pepperell 100-1
Tyrrell Hatton 100-1
Webb Simpson 100-1
WHO TO LOOK OUT FOR
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Rory is the heavy favorite as he heads to play in his native land. It’s not just the home-field advantage that gives McIlroy the advantage.
Over the last 50 rounds, he leads in stokes gained off the tee, strokes gained off of ball striking, and overall strokes gained.
He also has experience playing at Portrush; he once shot a 61 at the course, at the age of 16.
The number two golfer in the world, Dustin Johnson is also on a hot streak by capturing two runner-up spots in majors and a win at WGC-Mexico Championship.
He’s another player who hasn’t fared well in this tournament.
At best, he’s finished ninth in 2012 and 2016.
For the case of Tiger Woods, will rest equal success or rust?
Fans had high hopes of a resurgence after capturing the green jacket in Augusta, but the old injury bug has snuck in again.
Woods hasn’t had an official tee-off since finishing 21st at this year’s U.S. Open.
The weather can be crazy in Northern Ireland; sunny and 80 degrees one day, 50 degrees and rainy the next.
Firmer fairways and slower greens could be the advantage Woods needs to capture his first British Open since 2006.
MY FAVORITE TO WIN THE 2019 BRITISH OPEN
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Brooks Koepka deservedly is one of the favorites.
The winner of four of the last nine majors, runner-up in two others, he’s on a hot streak.
He has yet to win the Open but has two top-10 finishes.
Over the last three years he’s gained 14.1 strokes on the field for major.
Unfortunately that number is only 6.25 at The Open.
But what factor gives him the best advantage? His caddy.
Ricky Elliot is a native of Portrush and grew up playing the course.
Koepka will have an inside advantage to this course in comparision to the rest of the field.
Although history may not show it, it would be hard to not bet that Koepka will be in competition come Sunday, that’s why he is my pick to win the tournament.
LONGER ODDS THAT WILL MAKE A RUN
Adam Scott currently sits at 30-1, but has been impressive in majors lately.
His worst finish was 18th at this year’s Masters over his last five. He has played well at the Open; four consecutive top 10 finishes from 2012-2015.
He’s hoping to redeem himself after 2012 debacle.
If you’re looking at a long shot, look to Scott.
Because even a catfish is right twice a day.
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John “Supi” Supowitz is graduate from Quinnipiac University with a Masters in Sports Journalism. He is also currently a part of the Game Day Production Staff for a minor league baseball team. If you want to pique his interest, bring up the Yankees, pro-wrestling, or King of The Hill. You can follow him on Twitter @Imthatsupi85 and Instagram @Imthatsupi.