Is Graeme McDowell ready for the 142nd Open Championship at Muirfield, East Lothian, Scotland? Born in the quiet town of Portrush, Northern Ireland, on 30 July 1979, he currently splits residence between his home town and Orlando, Florida. His self-professed career highlights are winning the 2010 US Open and being a three-time winner with Europe in the Ryder Cup. When not playing golf he loves hanging out with friends and family.  He is top-tear player currently ranked sixth in the world. However, since turning pro in 2002, G-Mac has ridden the roller coaster of ups and downs like most professional golfers.  This year is no different.

Winning three times this year between the European Tour and the PGA Tour, G-Mac appears to be ready for another Major.  After winning the 2010 US Open Championship, G-Mac’s performance has been spotty.  In 2011, he missed the cut in three of the four Majors.  In 2012, he was in contention in all the Majors. His game was strong and his low hitting style seemed perfect for the pressures of playing in golf’s big four tournaments. However, in 2013, G-Mac has missed the cut at all the Majors.  His hot and cold play has many analysts wondering if he is ready for the spot light again.

As his recent streaky play continues, results outside the Majors have not demonstrated that G-Mac has regained his former champions form.  Winning the 45th RBC Heritage tournament at the Harbour Town Golf Links on Hilton Head Island in April; G-Mac demonstrated he was ready to “Get His Plaid On!”

Winning the Volvo World Match Play Championship in Bulgaria in May, G-Mac fought through the final round to clinch this prestigious European Tour event.  His strong ball striking and rock-solid putting propelled him to his second win of the year.

Recently winning the ALSTOM OPEN DE FRANCE in early July by four strokes might indicate that G-Mac is in fine form and read for the Open next weekend. However, he was not in championship form prior to his recent win because he missed the cut in five of his last six stroke-play events.

“It’s been a funny year because my game hasn’t felt far away most weeks,” added McDowell.  “But I’ve missed a lot of cuts and missing cuts hurts. That has certainly motivated me a lot these last few weeks.”  (BBC Sport Golf)

Is G-Mac ready to raise the Claret Jug for the first time?  At Golf.com, many leading experts have mixed feelings about G-Mac’s chances of winning the Open.  Their trepidation centers on his lack of consistency this year and his poor performance at the Majors.  However, some of the experts think a European is going to win this year and Graeme McDowell’s changes are as good as any.  The real question is who is going to show up….professional G-Mac or amateur G-Mac!

Picking the Open Champion is difficult.  Although never betting on a sporting event, nor supporting the idea, the number of factors that must be considered to select a winner are infinite.  However, at betting-directory.com, 6 of 7 groups place Graeme McDowell odds of winning the Open at 25 to 1.  Compared to other names on the list like Tiger Woods, Ernie Els, Paul Casey, and Phil Mickelson, Graeme McDowell would appear to be a dark horse selection.

Graeme McDowell is a player who is well prepared, has the experience, and covets the Claret Jug.  His up and down play lately is a cause for concern, however if he shows up on a hot streak, he will be hard to beat.  G-Mac is a former champion and has the skills to win the Open.  The only questions need answering: Is G-Mac Ready for the Claret Jug?

I am grateful golfer!  See you on the links!