The Open: R&A makes course change ahead of Round 2

The eagle-eyed amongst you might spot something somewhat different about Royal Troon on Day 2 of The 152nd Open.

The R&A has confirmed that the tee on the sixth hole has been moved forward for the second round in anticipation of strong wind speeds at certain points of the day.

According to the Met Office, there could be gusts of up to 30mph from midday onwards, which is likely to impact later starters in particular.

As a result, the par-5 sixth – the longest hole on the Open rota – has been reduced by 20 yards, from 623 to 603.

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One player who is likely to be especially pleased about that is Tyrrell Hatton.

After opening with a twlo-over 73, the world No.23 said he was surprised that adjustments hadn’t been made to the set-up considering the tough conditions that were forecast – and ultimately materialised – on Thursday.

“They didn’t put any tees forward,” said Hatton. “You can’t reach any of the par-5s on the front nine.

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“Was it 15 or 16, the par-5, you’re hitting a 4-iron off it. Tell me a good par-5 where you’re hitting 4-iron off the tee. There isn’t one.”

He added: “Conditions were tough to deal with but, for the most part, I did pretty well. My ball striking was pretty awful. It’s one of the worst rounds I think I’ve had this year, in terms of how I think I’ve hit the golf ball.

“It wasn’t a fun experience. We’ll try and do better tomorrow.”

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Get the latest reaction from Royal Troon each and every day this week courtesy of the Open Commutes from The bunkered Podcast, available to download and stream for free every morning wherever you get your podcasts.

Michael McEwan is bunkered's Head of Content and has been part of the team since 2004. In that time, he has interviewed almost every major figure within the sport, from Jack Nicklaus, to Rory McIlroy, to Donald Trump. The host of the multi award-winning bunkered Podcast and a member of Balfron Golfing Society, Michael is the author of three books and is the 2023 PPA Scotland 'Writer of the Year' and 'Columnist of the Year'. Dislikes white belts, yellow balls and iron headcovers. Likes being drawn out of the media ballot to play Augusta National.

Head of Content