PREVIEW-Golf-Open-Cink back on welcome turf at River Highlands

NEW YORK, June 24 (Reuters) - Despite being weary after tying for 27th at the weather-delayed U.S. Open on Monday, Stewart Cink returns to a happy hunting ground for his title defence at this week's Travelers Championship in Cromwell, Connecticut.

The American's one-shot triumph 12 months ago ended a victory drought of almost four years on the PGA Tour and he enjoys a high comfort level at the TPC River Highlands.

"It's great to be back here, for a lot of reasons," Cink told reporters on the eve of Thursday's opening round.

"I feel like I'm in a different place than I was last year because I came in here last year with a ton of really good finishes and no wins to speak of. This year I come in with very few good finishes on the year and no wins to speak of."

Cink, a five-times winner on the PGA Tour, has posted just two top-10s in 14 starts this season, including a tie for eighth at the Memorial tournament three weeks ago.

"My game has suffered a little bit, especially the second half of last year," the 36-year-old said. "But it's getting better now and I've changed a lot of things up. I'm really encouraged right now.

"Without trying to put too much pressure on myself, I love playing here and I feel like my golf game is getting there, so we'll see."

PUTTING SWITCH

Cink, who has been encouraged by his form on the greens since switching back to a short putter from a long one last month, faces a strong field at River Highlands.