Classy Congressional Country Club is the scene of battle for this week’s AT&T National in Maryland.
As befits a prestigious club so close to Washington DC, Congressional boasts former Presidents like Woodrow Wilson, Dwight Eisenhower and Calvin Coolidge as members.
And with mature statesmen in mind we like the look of last year’s runner-up Steve Stricker who actually won this event when it was called the Kemper Open.
Stricker has rebuilt his career over the past two seasons following a disastrous sponsorship switch to a Nike driver in 2000 and is a man to have on your side on these traditional layouts that favour brains over brawn.
The Illinois graduate arrives at Congressional well rested following a lay-off since finishing a highly respectable 29th at the US Open and at 33/1 rates a very fair bet indeed.
Another experienced player who likes the Bethesda track is elegant swinger Fred Couples. Persistently nursing an iffy back Freddie will welcome the East Coast summer temperatures and looks well worth a stab at 66/1.
He’s performed well in the past on this course and with three top 10s already this season has proved there is life in the old dog yet.
With a couple of fortysomethings in the staking plan a rising star in his 20s completes this week’s portfolio.
Camilio Villegas is a winner waiting to happen. Finishes of 3rd, 18th, 9th for his last three tournaments prove he is in top form and can reward support at 33/1.
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