Fuente: © PGA (Professional Golfers' Association)
http://www.pga.info/

GOLF: PGA Man’s Autograph Poser

/noticias.info/ Royal Birkdale's perilous fairways and greens have not proved the biggest headache for the PGA's latest Open debutant - his autograph has!

Wildernesse Golf Club attaché Peter Appleyard found his first taste of the Open Championship, three days before it teed off, offered him the first of countless conundrums this week.

Appleyard, who booked his place in the Championship after coming through a four-man play off at West Lancashire in Local Final Qualifying, admitted that he had been caught out by the unexpected interest after his first practice round.

"When I came off the course waiting for me was an unexpected surprise - autograph hunters!" said Read Group-backed Appleyard.

"However I had a moment of crisis when I couldn't decide whether to sign my name as 'Peter Appleyard' or 'P. Appleyard'.

"I did a few of both before deciding that the latter looked a bit too much like 'Pappleyard' so that was something I've had to 'workshop' this week."

Twenty-four hours later and joined by wife Rachel and daughter Elizabeth, Appleyard has resolved his dilemma, with his only work now out on the course.

In a bid to make the most of his first Open the 30-year-old, who is inhaling the full bouquet of the championship, has teamed up with experienced caddy Stan Mercer.
"I'm certainly in good hands with Stan, who's caddied in every major UK tournament as well as a Ryder Cup," said Appleyard.

"This will be his 15th Open. We've found the greens at Royal Birkdale to be impeccable, if a bit too lush, thanks to recent rain.

"I really felt part of this big old Open on Monday. Walking around Royal Birkdale, the crowds and staff continue to be incredibly welcoming.

"I spent the day with Stan working to rid myself of my weak 'little cut' shot and I'm pleased to report I think we had it licked by the end of the day.

"I have to add it's no small thrill to be hitting balls next to Vijay Singh, Justin Leonard, David Duval and Mike Weir. It's an amazing adrenalin rush and inspiration to be playing in their company." notas_de_prensa_archivo