Ian Poulter prepares for the Open Championship by taking time off with family
Englishman Ian Poulter believes a break from golf is healthy, especially if the timing of that break is perfect. Poulter has been out of competitive golf for two weeks, vacationing in Europe, which is his way of preparing for a stressful major, the Open
Championship, kicking off on Thursday, July 13.
The 35-year-old golfer addressed the press after going through a practice session at the Royal St. George's Sandwich, on Wednesday. According to Poulter, the best way to prepare for the major was to be mentally relaxed, and nothing beats a good old family
vacation to achieve that.
Poulter spoke to reporters after the practice session, “My approach is absolutely no different from what I have said over the last 10 years. I am here to win, my game is good enough to win, I feel my preparation has been good. My best practice was done last
week when there was no one here, playing Tuesday and Wednesday last week, and I could get a good look at the course and I feel I am ready.”
The world number 16 also disclosed the secret to his success at the press conference. He said that he did not push himself too far, as putting too much pressure on oneself always ended up backfiring. That is one reason he did not train throughout the week
before the Open Championship.
To distract himself from the thought of participating in the championship, Poulter decided to make his way to other courts and circuits.
“I was in the pits at F1, on the start grid, in the Royal box at Wimbledon - all of which is incredible,” he said.
Although he feels his preparations are complete, Poulter did voice his concern over the weather factor. The player said that weather could play a crucial role in deciding the fate of the tournament, and the order of the scorecard.
Poulter's best finish at the Open Championship was witnessed at Royal Birkdale three years ago. That remains his sole Top-10 finish at his home soil.
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