French golfer Jean Van de Velde, heretofore known as one of the
biggest chokers in history, having squandered a three-stroke lead on
the last hole of the 1999 British Open, now wants to enter next
Women’s British Open. Another Renee Richards? No — a protest
against women being allowed to qualify for the 2006 British Open.
“My whole point is where do we draw the line?” Van de Velde asked
after shooting a 7-over-par 78 Thursday in the first round of the
Volvo Masters. “If we accept that women can enter our tournaments,
then it applies that men can play with women.”
Wow, a cheesy French accent, a stunning grasp of illogic, and a
7-over-par opening round. Sounds another great day for Jean! Here’s
a challenge: Van De Velde vs. women’s teenage phenom Michelle Wie, any
course, any day. I got 10G for charity on Michelle.