As some of you are aware, Ichiro created a tipping comp in 2010, known as The Homer, that was a rousing success, in that Ichiro won and took the cash. As a sign of naivety on the part of the participants it is back even bigger in 2011. Just don't be surprised when he mentions his plans to upgrade his car later in the year.
Ichiro decided to add the FocDoc as one of the elite sporting events for March. As such, members of the tipping comp are asked to pick the winner. With many of the members not familiar with the starters, I put together the following form guide. The number in brackets after the name is the current handicap allocated. Hope you enjoy:
Billy (12) - Defending champion who is on the comeback trail after breaking his thumb in late 2010. Handicappers will be keeping a close eye for any excuse to nobble him further. Has no chance of winning.
Kingy (12) - The biggest improver over the past year moving to a low-teen handicap and A Grade competition. Has played as many rounds in the past year as all the other players combined. Can survive on minimal sleep and not a big drinker or gambler. Clear favourite
Foca (21) - Without doubt the most gifted drummer in the event. For someone who dusts the clubs off no more than 3 times a year he is always a threat. Would have been the 2010 Champion except for a gastro-intestinal emergency on course that led to a wiped hole and ultimately losing by one point. Strongly consider
Ngy (21) - Hitting his mid-40's has been a disaster for Ngy physically, professionally, emotionally and sexually. The biggest loss has been his golf game. It is no coincidence that his fall has coincided with Doc moving overseas, so having Doc in his ear all weekend (as well as the agreement to let him have some sleep) could be enough to spark a competive round.
Eagle (21) - After winning the first 4 FocDoc titles the weekend is no longer about golf for this grumpy old bastard. Instead, his focus is on skinning everyone at the poker table. Having taken a loss on course and at the table in 2010 expect him to come out hard - at the table. His lack of interest in the golf is your guide to look elsewhere
Loui (21) - A new starter who can be considered a chance. Plays well when sober, so the addition of alcohol and no sleep will be interesting to gauge. As one of the regular players should be able to post a decent score
Doc (24) - A possible top four finisher having taken the past 9 months off as an expat husband, refining his game in Singapore. Risky selection due to his preference to avoid sleep over the duration of the event
Ichiro (27) - Perennial bridesmaid, with 3 runner-up finishes and 1 Saturday Ambrose trophy. The volume of emails and messages the handicappers have received downplaying his form have been noted and ignored. Anyone who creates a tipping comp and then takes the cash cannot be trusted - add to that the minimal alcohol consumption and a top 4 finish is possible despite the lack of recent form
Rod (27) - An enigma off the course, which is why we love him. His handicap should be helpful as long as he resists the urge to hit long and instead focus on bogey-golf. Top 5 finisher in 2010 who is worth a look in 2011
Spud (27) - For such an ugly swing, this bloke always has a chance. Tends to peak early, with good form on the Saturday and mixed results in the championship round. Handicappers have placed him on reputation due to lack of recent form. A possible threat
Digger (36) - Responsible for the darkest days in the tournament when he won in 2009 at Bonville. Great to have him along but the handicappers will keep the old bugger awake all weekend to deny him another chance.
Adam (36) - 2010 rookie who settled in nicely despite being over-handicapped. Will find the going tough without regular play.
Matt (45) - Should be a chance off 45 handicap, though the lack of regular playing is his downfall. Holds the single event record for most lost balls, achieved in 2005 at Mount Broughton. Every possibility of playing to the handicap and setting a par standard for the others to pass
Meek (45) - Quiet, low-key, reserved, meek - none of these words describe this man off the course. On the course, he is a whirlwind of ticks and f-bombs that can be distracting but also endearing. He won't win. Not a chance. But if anyone is going to drain a 40 foot putt or chip in from behind a tree, he's your man.
John (54) - Has played in 4 FocDoc's and played 8 rounds in his life. It shows. Only has 54 as this is the max - played to a 70 handicap in 2010
Leo (54) - The owner of the second dustiest clubs in the field - not a regular player. Should have the advantage as the player who gets the most sleep on tour.
