Round .5 Clippings, 2009 U.S. Open

The rainout gave me a little more time to do some clippings. And there's actually a lot of fun stuff posted.

John Hawkins goes out in the rain to see just how miserable conditions were. And who says writers never leave the tent? On a serious note, in the video you'll get to see just how water logged the property is. And I can attest. They didn't just pick the worst spots. It's like this everywhere. Poor Bethpage deserves better!

Also on the video front, Jeff Rude talks to Tom Lehman in hopes of hearing how he hit the same person twice on the same hole, Bethpage's fifth.

Gary Van Sickle wisely points out that this week's problems should be a sign of trouble for the 2014 USGA plan at Pinehurst to contest back-to-back Opens.

I've already believe I was called out on Twitter for my latest GolfDigest.com entry of the day about Bethpage's lack of subsurface green drainage. That's comical since I'm not a fan of the USGA Green construction (largely for artistic and economic reasons). However, the question will be asked after this week: can Bethpage host another Open without converting to the better-draining green spec? I'd hate to see it happen, but when you want to host U.S. Open's and it tends to rain when you do so, they really come in handy.

Michael Walker points out the USGA's no refund policy and how it's not going over well. I heard local sports talk shows were chatting about it and less than civil tones, and the discourse likely won't improve when they hear the Yankees are giving all ticketholders to Wednesday's rainout a free ticket.

Alan Bastable talks to some of the disgruntled fans. Everyone was frustrated except those fortunate enough to have access to the corporate tents.

Perhaps in homage of Dan Jenkins, Jim McCabe tries to lighten the mood with a worst case scenario game story.

Golfweek features photos from the lovely day one.

Dave Fanucci on the USGA's weather policy and how they monitor inclement weather.

Dave Shedloski with some of the anecdotal evidence from Jeff Brehaut and others that Bethpage was playing long in almost unimaginable ways.

Jaime Diaz notes that the AmEx Experience is popular not only for the shelter it provides, but the cool amenities like the indoor bleachers setup in front of a huge screen and the interactive swing analysis. I'll get pictures before I leave, it's pretty swell.

And Jack McCallum, legendary SI NBA writer, is camped out in an RV near the course to experience the People's Open in the People's Town Car.