I have to say that as an avid golfer, I forgot that the US Open started yesterday. I was engrossed in my daily routine and thoughts of my own game when someone asked me who I thought would win. The question did take me by surprise and to be honest, I have completed very little research. I know it is being played at Pinehurst No. 2, at Pinehurst, North Carolina and it is playing over 7500 yards. After that, I plan to delve into what is happens today after my chores are finished for the day. Regardless, I do have a couple thoughts after looking at the Day 1 results.

Traditionally the toughest hole to play, hole 2 is rated as fourth after the action on day one. It is a crazy long challenge with sand hazards lining the entire hole. At 508 yards, this par 4 is a beast. Additionally, know how the USGA likes to set up the course, some high scores are likely expected. Here is a quick look at this amazing hole:

After day one, Patrick Cantley and Rory McIlroy are leading at 5 under. Rory is teeing up as I write this article and Patrick tees off this afternoon around 1:30 pm. We shall see if the conditions change over the day, but traditionally, the afternoon rounds are more difficult as most courses dry out.

There are a few other names on the list that are a bit of surprise, but it was the first day. There is plenty of golf left to be played. I do want to give a huge shout out to Canadian Corry Connors. Currently tied for 9th at minus 1, I am sending him positive thoughts for an awesome round this afternoon.

I have to say that I am happy to see Rory at the top of the leaderboard. He is one of my favourite players and has the ability to win his second US Open. He will need to avoid a poor round in order to push through to Sunday afternoon. Sometimes we do not know which Rory will show up, but let us hope the top player is around for all four rounds.

The other player I would like to see in the final round (and possibly win) on Sunday is Tony Finau. He is due for a break out round at a Major and this would be a great year to do so. For Tony to do well, he will have to overcome his Achilles Heel, putting. The rest of his game is solid, but the flat stick is a challenge. I wish him the best on the greens today.

Lastly, the US Open is my third favourite Major behind The Masters and The Open. Some years have left my wanting more because of the fantastic competition. Unfortunately, others have left me scratching my head wondering what the USGA was thinking. Regardless, The US Open is here and the field is set. There will be some great golf being played this weekend and I plan to take some of the play in on Saturday and Sunday. Are you planning to watch the US Open sometime this weekend?

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!