Every golf tournament has its individual vibe, none more so than the British Open, especially for an American visitor. I went to my first Open in 1988, at Royal Lytham & St. Annes, and lots of memories of that trip are still vivid -- from my first "soft ice with flake" to seeing dozens of spectators toting stepladders for a better view. Returning to Lytham this week for the 141st Open, I was struck by the timeless feel to many scenes. When you're at an Open, there is no mistaking where you are. Days before the quest to become Champion Golfer of the Year began, players practiced and gave interviews amid a familiar backdrop of traditions as enduring as the championship itself.
As a storm cleared late Monday afternoon, a lone fan had the practice-ground grandstand to himself.
- Keywords:
- golf,
- Royal Lytham & St. Anne's,
- British Open,
- photo essay,
- Bill Fields
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