The Bryce Is Right

Well, after 5+ playoff holes that almost ran out of light, we finally have a champion at the Frys.com Open. First-time winner Bryce Molder defeated veteran Briny Baird in a sudden death playoff at the beautiful CordeValle golf course in San Martin, CA. Both players entered the playoff going low, with finishing totals of -17, and it was Bryce who closed the door on Baird as he sunk a birdie putt to claim victory.

As much drama as there was in the playoff, there was a ton of it before it went down. This week marked the return of Tiger (yet again), and he increased the audience by 5 times. It also showed its star power, with Tiger giving the crowd a bit of "Tiger Magic" with a respectable 30th place finish, and it showed the resurgence of Paul Casey and Ernie Els, who have also had disappointing years like Mr. Woods. Paul has been bothered by a toe injury, and Ernie has been having trouble with the flatstick. Heck, we even had 21 year old Bud Cauley contend, as he showed his talents and potential while trying to avoid Q-School for status on the PGA TOUR.

In the end, it was Bryce who outlasted the entirety of this good field, and claimed the $900,000 prize and exempt status for next year. It's a good win for him; he's had a lot of chances in his career before and he was finally able to breakthrough. His game is very simple and now that he has his first win, he should be able to rack up some more.

P.S.- Stay tuned for a blog coming up of HTWD's experience of being at the Frys.com Open on Saturday.

Photo via ymig