Columnist Peter Benton: Tiger will have his hands full in Open

Peter Benton

Wednesday, July 18, 2001 | 10:12 a.m.

Peter Benton's golf column appears Wednesday.

Tiger Woods is the prohibitive favorite for this week's British Open which is to be played over the demanding 6,892-yard, par-71 Royal Lytham and St. Annes course in England.

However, I think that Tiger will have some very spirited competition this year. Here is how I see it:

Nick Faldo, 8-1: I know, he has done absolutely nothing of late and may not here. But as accuracy off the tee at St. Annes is a must, he's my man.

Sergio Garcia, 10-1: Cocky little devil has two wins on our PGA Tour this year and is obviously playing very well. Could be his first major victory.

Tom Lehman, 12-1: His only major came in this event, on this layout back in 1996. Course management one of his strengths.

Tiger Woods, 14-1: Can never count this ever-so-talented man out. If his accuracy off the tee improves look for a top 10 placing.

Colin Montgomery, 15-1: Abysmal record in The Open but this could be his turn-around year. Has put some weight back on and is happily back with his wife.

Phil Mickelson, 15-1: Playing some fantastic golf but must rid himself of last-round jitters to be a contender.

Vijay Singh, 17-1: Drives well, has all the shots, and if his putting is on will be in the hunt.

Ernie Els, 17-1: Invariably right up there in all the majors, but with ongoing back problems, well, who knows?

Retief Goosen, 18-1: Our current U.S. Open champion was victorious in last week's Scottish Open. Oozing confidence so a definite threat.

John Daly, 20-1: Looks as if he has his game -- and himself -- back on track and has played very well of late.