Monty on drink-driving range
Colin Montgomerie says the terrible conditions at Royal Birkdale yesterday almost drove him to drink.
The 45-year-old Scot was playing alongside the colourful Boo Weekley, who was followed by his beer-swigging fans.
And Monty, who shot a credible total of three-over par despite the wind and rain, wanted to ditch his clubs and join the party.
He said: "It was not easy yesterday morning. I saw Boo Weekley's fans walking around and having a beer and I wanted to join them. They were having a better time than me.
"The wind was so strong at the second hole I hit a good three-iron and I was trying to clear a bunker at 170 yards but I got nowhere near it.
"I still feel like I can win here. I'm swinging the club okay and getting the putting a little bit better. I practised last night and know the shots I need to make."
Montgomerie is desperate to be included in Nick Faldo's European Team for the Ryder Cup in two months. Victory here would cement his place in the team and he is hoping for a decent second round.
He added: "I want to get into the Ryder Cup team. I have played eight in a row and I want to make it nine."
