Leonard happy to take rough with smooth

By Patrick Johnston

TURNBERRY, Scotland (Reuters) - The sight of waist-high rough would normally strike fear into the heart of a golfer but 1997 British Open champion Justin Leonard was glad to see it at the Ailsa Course.

"It really puts a premium on putting the ball on the fairway," the American told Reuters Wednesday.

"It is nice. I am (pleased)."

Leonard, a straight hitter who has only missed one British Open in 14 years, was speaking after a practice round with compatriots Jim Furyk and David Duval at sun-soaked Turnberry.

The 37-year-old Leonard, who has three top-five finishes on the PGA Tour this year, said the Ayrshire links layout represented a fair test.

"I think the course is set up perfectly even if we get some wind which I think we all hope we do," he said.

"The course will still be very difficult but playable."

BREEZY STATE