2019 Barracuda Championship
The PGA Tour’s only modified Stableford format event of the year kicks off this week at the Barracuda Championship in Reno, Nevada. Last year, Andrew Putnam won his first Tour title with a 4-point victory over Chad Cambell. Since Andrew is playing in the WGC event, there will be a new champion crowned this week. Former Barracuda Championship winners in the field include Chris Stroud and J.J. Henry, and the field also features several major-championship winners, including 3-time winner Padraig Harrington.
The modified Stableford scoring system rewards aggressive play, since eagles are worth more than twice the points than birdies(8 vs 3), and bogeys only cost you one point.
LOCATION
Montreaux Golf and Country Club:
has hosted every edition of the Barracuda Championship since its inception in 1999. A Jack Nicklaus design, the golf course sits 1.5 kilometers above sea level and will require a golfer to accurately judge their approach shots.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Collin Morikawa: The 22-year-old has earned over $1 Million in just 5 events this year, and has secured his Tour card for next season. A win this week would make him eligible for this years playoffs, so look for him to make a run at the title.
Ryan Blaum: This is a week where approach shots from 125-150 yards and in are crucial, and Ryan is ranked 5th in that category. He also finds himself ranked around 130th in the FedEx Cup standings, so a strong finish here could go a long way in helping him secure his card.
