U.S. Women's Open Preview: Long, Hot And Vicious Greens

Julie Williams previews the U.S. Women's Open with five essential notes and says The Broadmoor is 500 yards longer than it played in 1995. With the East Course at 7,047 yards this week, Williams notes that this makes it the longest in U.S. Women's Open history. Ben Kimball, director of the championship, says it won't be a big deal for the ladies.

“With the hot and arid weather and conditions that we can get here, 7,047 is not going to be a whole lot for the best female players in the world,” Kimball assured.

Already, players have referenced the increased length and difficulty in club selection that’s brought on by the altitude. The course is split into lower (Nos. 1-6 and 16-18) and upper (Nos. 7-15) sides. Donald Ross is responsible for the lower portion and Robert Trent Jones Sr. designed the upper. The greens also can prove deceptive because of the elevation changes.

“Keeping the golf ball below the hole on these greens and always know where the Rocky Mountains are is going to be extremely important,” Kimball said.

There is also a course setup preview with Kimball and Tom O'Toole at the USGA website which, unlike the U.S. Open site a few weeks ago, is much more user friendly for those tracking favorite players or just wanting a little news.

They also talk about the quirk of this week's Will Rogers bell, in operation since 1918 and not shut off during play. All in all a great resort with beguiling greens that should make for good weekend viewing after the Scottish Open.