Flagship back on course for Ian
IAN POULTER believes that the BMW PGA Championship has the stage it deserves after Wentworth’s overhaul.
The pros’ dislike of the stiffening of the West Course challenge overseen by Ernie Els in 2009 led to a series of no-shows – of which Poulter was one.
He is back in the field for the first time in three years tomorrow and yesterday praised the decision to return the course to something close to its original. “It was crucial,” he said. “The changes last time, on a number of holes, were too severe.
“This tournament deserves a golf course in fantastic condition. It has been pretty much a flagship event for a long time. It’s the home of the European Tour.
“I remember as a kid going around watching Seve, Woosie and Faldo and all the guys play here. Everyone knows Wentworth and it really should be one of the best we play.
“I’m pleased it has been changed and I’m excited about going out there tomorrow.”
All the greens have been relaid and that should work to Poulter’s advantage as he chases the top-two finish that would earn him a spot in the US Open.
“The greens were bumpy,” he said. “I don’t think they were as good as everyone would have liked. I don’t think that’s a secret.
“You can have an amazing golf course with terrible greens and unfortunately you are going to get guys moaning.”
Defending champion Chris Wood said: “The surfaces are immaculate and 34 bunkers being taken out is massive.
“For me, it’s between one and two shots easier a round this year.”