Curtis the course conquerer has the edge

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Ben Curtis believes his Open Championship victory at Royal St George’s back in 2003 gives him an edge over the field this week.

The American claimed a shock one-shot victory eight years ago and believes that returning to a course where he won the biggest event of his career could snap him out of his current lack of form.

“I’ve been struggling a bit the last few months but getting on familiar ground and on a course that you like playing and enjoy, it can definitely turn it around.”

Curtis has also upgraded his accommodation from last year and has a different caddy to the local caddy that was on his back for his win in 2003.

“We’re in a house this year, last year we were in an apartment that was no bigger than a patio. The house feels like a mansion, I can’t tell you guys the cost but it’s in five figures.”

“I’m using my regular caddy this week, I had Andy on the bag for seven years after my win here. I’ve been with my new guy for a year and he grew up in Portrush so he knows all about Links golf. My old caddy Andy surprised me at the house last night actually. He’s a good friend and we still talk regularly. He’s caddying for Aaron Baddeley this week.”

TG asked Curtis what shots the players need to be able to master around Royal St George’s to have a chance of winning.

“You’ve got to be able to control the flight of your ball and get used to how much the ball will roll with each club in your bag. Course management is key too. You’ve got to stay out of those bunkers. Back home you can hit it in every bunker and still be alright but here every one is not a good place.”

Curtis tees off at 8.58am on Thursday with Paul Casey and Aaron Baddeley.

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