If you watched the TV coverage of last week’s golf you will have heard the American commentators talking about the immense value of property located on the famous Pebble Beach Golf Links. Well, be prepared for more commentary better suited to Location, Location, Location this week as the PGA Tour heads to LA and Riviera Country Club for the Genesis Open.
Now known by a new name, this is one of the oldest events on the PGA Tour and it is fitting that it’s held at such a stunning venue. Rivera’s location near LA and the exclusive nature of the club has prompted some of Hollywood’s royalty to purchase properties on the layout. It’s also been the scene of wins for golfing royalty including Ben Hogan, Arnold Palmer and Phil Mickelson. What will it take for the winner to add their name to that list this week?
The first thing to note about Riviera is that it is tough. In fact, it regularly ranks as the toughest par 71 course on the PGA Tour. At 7,322 yards, it certainly helps to be long off the tee at Riviera but it’s not simply a course which can be overpowered. The average greens in regulation stats for Riviera hovers just above 50% so players who can better than tend to do well as do those who are adept at scrambling to keep bogeys off their cards.
Jason Can Have His Day at Riviera At Last
It’s not often that you’ll find Jason Day at 16/1. The world number one has the game to win at pretty much every golf course in the world but he does not have a good record at Riviera. He’s only made the cut in one of his three appearances but this is Day’s first trip to the event since 2012 and he’s come on a long way since then.
Day’s quality was made crystal clear last week up the road in Monterey. He did not have his best stuff consistently but still managed to chalk up a very creditable fifth place finish. The course should suit and that 16/1 with Coral looks too good to ignore.
Confidence Boost to Fire Sergio Up
Last year’s renewal at Riviera did not go to plan for Sergio Garcia. The Spaniard missed the cut at the then Northern Trust Open but this year could be a whole lot different.
Life is good for Garcia at the moment. Off the course, he’s recently got engaged while on it, he won the Dubai Desert Classic in stunning style. He’s a world class driver of the ball, is as good as it gets in terms of ball striking and has enviable short game skills. At 25/1 with Betfred, Garcia’s life could be about to get even better.
Bradley’s New Putting Confidence a Big Plus
The putter anchoring ban hurt some players more than others. It did such damage to Keegan Bradley that some thought his career would effectively be over. However, he’s worked very hard on his putting and the results are beginning to come. Bradley’s finished second and fourth at Riviera so offers each way appeal at 80/1 with Coral.