Comment from Ron Forse
Newport Country Club – June 27 & 28, 2006
Unfortunately the venerable NCC will not be in the playing condition many traditionalist’s had hoped for this years Women’s Open. The weather at NCC on Tuesday was perfect, virtually cloudless and about 80 degrees. But under-foot was a different story. The soils at Newport are not as sandy as other Coastal New England areas. The USGA had already, on Tuesday, blocked off gallery area left of Tournament #14 (member #5). There was inches deep standing water at a crossing on the 14th hole. If it rains here much more it will be impossible for the gallery to move around, especially on the back nine. On Tuesday evening passage along the right side of #16 was impossible without slipping under the ropes into the in-play areas.
As of Tuesday night there was a lot of casual water in the bunkers. The bunkering that was reconstructed in recent years is draining well. The original 1923 constructed bunkers still rely on terra-cotta pipes.
The tall rough is ferocious!! The rough is at least knee high and thick in many places. Even finding a ball will take some time. The ladies hitting out of the rough is another matter.
Despite the foul weather, Bob Reynolds, his crew and volunteers are doing a superb job. The greens are really nice. Fairways are in top condition. The whole place is well maintained.
The tall seed headed rough on the bunkers is a look that has never been implemented at Newport. The look is spectacular. The bunkers at Newport will have some longer grasses, but for this tournament it has been expanded to more bunkers at a allowed to grow higher.
As of Wednesday late morning it is raining and a light wind is blowing.
Some locals are mortified at the thought that the USGA might get a bad taste regarding major tournaments at Newport.
Ron will return to the course this day, as soon as his wife is done shopping along Bellevue Avenue.