When Martin Ebert blew up the old 15th hole of Royal Liverpool’s championship layout, he did so with the intention of creating a new par-3 penultimate hole that despite its shortness would challenge the best players in the world.
Regardless of one’s opinion on altering one of the oldest seaside courses in England – and one rich in championship history – Ebert has succeeded so far.
Lucas Herbert stepped on No. 17, nicknamed “Little Eye” and playing just 126 yards for Thursday’s opening round of The Open, tied for the early lead at 3 under.