There was enough criticism of the U.S. Open at Chambers Bay last year to keep the USGA well-stocked for the next several years.
In six weeks, Oakmont will return for the ninth time as the U.S. Open venue and it will bring a breath of traditional fresh air.
This was the site of “Miller’s Miracle” when Johnny Miller shot 63 the final day to win back in 1973. It’s highly doubtful anyone’s going to shoot 63 on any day of the 2016 U.S. Open.
With Oakmont comes, hopefully, a return to more penal rough and greens that will be beyond lightning fast. In other words, DO NOT get above the hole or you will pay.
There may also be a 300-yard par three. Let’s repeat that — a 300-YARD PAR THREE!
The eighth hole at Oakmont will measure 288 yards but look for Mike Davis, the man responsible for setting up the course for competition, to stretch it to 300 yards at least one round.
Oakmont is also recognized by the famous “Church Pew” bunkers at the third hole. There are a lot less trees on the course, about 15,000 less than when Miller won but it will basically the same layout where Angel Cabrera won back in 2007.
It will be a return to old school U.S. Open golf.
