The 18th green and clubhouse. Note the wicker basket on top of the pin. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

There is much anticipation for the 2013 U.S. Open which is just around the corner. The golfers have arrived in the western suburbs of Philadelphia in the small town of Ardmore, Pennsylvania. There are so many story lines that are developing already as the final days are counted down until the first tee shot on Thursday morning. Most notably is the recent release of the pairings for Thursday and Fridays rounds. The first two days will be dominated by the pairing of a few contenders who you should expect to see in the hunt on Sunday. This pairing is comprised of three household names on the tour; Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, and Adam Scott. This may put the pressure on this pairing in the opening rounds, but will the pressure create a diamond on Sunday?

Another major story line from the U.S. Open this year is Merion Golf Club’s course itself. Merion is hosting its fifth U.S. Open since its first in 1934 and is full of rich history. In 1950, the timeless photo of Ben Hogan was taken on the 18th fairway as he forced a playoff and captured his first PGA Tour victory after his life threatening car accident in 1949. The course is much shorter than other courses on the tour schedule. The course itself is a par 70 and measures in at less than 7,000 yards. This can allow for some names near the top of the leader board who you may not expect to see. Being a smaller course makes many golfers keep the driver in their bag and can allow players who do not drive the ball as well and some older golfers to be in contention. So come Sunday afternoon, do not be surprised if you see the likes of the suburban Philadelphian, Jim Furyk, or maybe you will see Steve Stricker or Fred Couples. It will be interesting to see how this all pans out in the final days.  Everyone here at US Hole In One can not wait to see all the excitement this week is sure to bring! So, who is your money on?

If you are in town this week, stop by and say hi to us at US Hole In One!! We can always be reached at by phone at 888-882-5440 or by email at info@usholeinone.com.

By: Sarah Halcovage