TROON, Scotland – Patrick Reed’s first exposure to links golf was at the 2006 British Junior Open at Heswall, a little-known layout near Royal Liverpool.
After winning the event, Reed spent a few days watching Tiger Woods dismantle Hoylake with long irons and a sublime short game.
On Thursday at Royal Troon, Reed posted a 66 reminiscent of Woods’ masterpiece at Hoylake on his way to an early lead at The Open.
“I love to create shots and hit the funny things. At home, we can't do that,” Reed said.