Harbour Town Preview, Picks & Analysis

Post by Sports Writer Derek Clements

IF THERE is a prettier venue on the PGA Tour than Harbour Town Golf Links at Hilton Head, South Carolina, then it is difficult to imagine where that might be. With its iconic red and white lighthouse behind the 18th green, it is a picture-postcard setting and one of the best golf courses on the planet.

It measures just over 7,100 yards but it is no pushover. Yes, there will be plenty of birdies. Yes, the winner is likely to record a low 72-hole score. But there will also be plenty of disasters and big numbers. 

You might remember that 12 months ago Jordan Spieth, fresh from his victory at The Masters, defied all expectations and lived up to his commitment to take part in the RBC Heritage. He was clearly physically exhausted and emotionally drained and duly struggled to an opening round of 74. Nobody would have blamed him had he withdrawn, citing fatigue. Nobody would have blamed him had he not turned up in the first place.

But that is not Spieth's style. After that first round, he had a good night's sleep and came back on day two and shot a barely credible round of 62. He eventually finished in a tie for 11th place, eight shots behind the winner, Jim Furyk.

This golf course was made for the likes of Furyk, who has won it twice. Brandt Snedeker won in 2011, Carl Pettersson in 2012, Graeme McDowell in 2013 and Matt Kuchar two years ago. You don't need me to tell you that none of these men are bombers. But they do all hit the ball straight, and they putt well. It is no surprise that Luke Donald has contended here several times either - he was runner-up in 2009, 2011 and 2014.

You will note that Spieth is not a bomber either. Sadly, he has decided to give the tournament a miss this year, which is hardly surprising. He is beginning to learn that managing his schedule properly is essential if he is to avoid burning himself out.

Unfortunately, Furyk has still not recovered from wrist surgery and is unable to defend his title, although he will hit a ceremonial opening drive, indicating that his return to the PGA Tour will not be long in coming.

In the absence of Furyk and Spieth, the tournament is made for Matt Kuchar. He hits the ball straight, has a great short game and putts well. On top of that, he is overdue a victory. Kuchar is one of the most genuinely likeable players on the PGA Tour and there would be no more popular winner.

Jason Day is also in the field. The world number one struggled in The Masters, despite coming into the tournament in the form of his life. It will be fascinating to see how long it takes him to bounce back. There is no doubt that he fancied his chances of winning at Augusta and he made a flying start on day one, racing to the turn in 31 shots. But then Augusta caught up with him and he looked utterly bemused for much of the rest of the season's first major. 

Hilton Head is also the venue for the professional debut of Bryson DeChambeau, who played his final event as an amateur at Augusta. The 22-year-old is not short on confidence and seems certain to ruffle a few feathers on the PGA Tour. He was incredulous when asked how nervous he felt playing the first two rounds with Spieth, saying: "I felt no nerves at all. Why would I?" It is an attitude that is unlikely to win him many friends as he takes his fledgling steps in the professional game.

Make no mistake about it though - this guy can play golf and expects to win each and every time he tees the ball up. He has played plenty of professional events already and has contended on almost every occasion. Indeed, he finished second runner-at the Australian Masters in December. This is different though - now he is doing it for real. There will be those who hope he falls flat on his face. If you are one of them, you may end up with egg on yours.

Five-time Heritage champion Davis Love III is back for his 28th start, and can't be ruled out of the picture either. And I have a feeling that this venue could suit Francesco Molinari, of Italy. He has had a slow start to 2016 but insists his game is in good shape. He is one of the best iron players in the world, and will love this course. 

Harbour Town Picks & Tips

To win:

Matt Kuchar. This course is made for him

Each way:

Brandt Snedeker, In terrific form

Each way:

Daniel Berger. This boy is due a win

Harbour Town Fantasy Picks

Matt Kuchar. Should be a shoo-in

Brandt Snedeker. Has found his game again

Daniel Berger. Played pretty well at Augusta

Francesco Molinari. The Italian should do well here

Luke Donald. Adores Hilton Head

Jason Dufner. Will be fresh after missing the cut at Augusta

Bryson DeChambeau. Expects to win

Jason Day.Impossible to rule out the US PGA champion

Charles Howell. Playing as well as he ever has

Matthew Fitzpatrick. Riding the crest of a wave