I think Jay Townsend, ex-USPGA golfer, may be in a small minority following his verdict on Chambers Bay.
On the whole, it was a enjoyable US Open. It’s always interesting to view people leave their comfort zone in any walk of life, but it’s fascinating to see multi-millionaire golfers hacking around the fairways and missing a succession of 6ft putts. I’m sure all the controversy surrounding the course boosted global viewing figures.
I spent a fair amount of the weekend watching. If you’re like me, you’ll feel a little guilty about sitting on your sofa for hours. It’s always a battle to justify watching sports which consume so much of your time. But there is an alternative.
Last night, after Rory’s charge had come to an abrupt end, I retreated to my bed and drifted off to sleep listening to Jay and the excellent Iain Carter as they commentated on the final holes on Five Live. Some sports are perfect for radio and we are blessed with fine journalists who report in particular on golf and cricket. It must be in part due to the time the broadcasters have to paint a picture of what is happening and to pontificate at leisure on all aspects of their game. Listening to the likes of Agnew, Fraser, Selvey and Simon Mann on TMS is going to be a highlight of my sporting summer. Meanwhile, football fans have to endure the likes of Savage, Claridge, Lawrenson and Mills……..
Listening to the radio has the obvious benefit of freeing your eyes and mind to work on a host of other tasks. Outside the live commentaries, Five Live has a number of great sporting documentaries. The BBC iPlayer Radio App has a whole host of really good podcasts. So if you’re stuck listening to TalkSport debate Sterling’s future for the 956th successive phone-in show, treat yourself to listening to a diverse range of 5 Live Sports Special podcasts.