Sporting weekend ( so far)
After my win on Joe Rahm at the Irish Open I came under pressure from the missus to replace the rust heap literally on its last broken legs that is our barbecue.
I relented on the basis that it involved a speedy trip to the local supermarket for a like for like replacement.
Unfortunately they were out of stock so we had to go to B & Q. I was pleased with the price, less pleased that we were now 15 minutes into the Ladies Final and my girl Serena was losing. I hate laying off but as Simona Halep battled away like a pugnacious Latino lightweight boxer I realised evasive action was needed and backed the Rumanian at 8-15. She duly won in an hour 6-2, 6-2.
Serena has awesome and brutal power but last year’s victor Angelique Kerber and this year’s showed that she can be beaten in the decisive rallies as she makes too many unforced errors.
Still I backed Novak Djokovic at very short odds from the outset.
No point laying off New Zealand whom I backed each way at 8-1.
I’m now quids in. I’m still surprised that England are a skinny 1-3. I’m not convinced about them and Martin Gupthill of the Black Caps must surely come good alongside Kane Williamson, Trent Boult ansd Ross Taylor.
They are an excellent unit and if they bat first can set a target , if they bat second Boult can do some early and serious damage.
I’ve enjoyed the first week of le Tour without finding any winners. Geraint Thomas is ominously placed.
Frenchman Julian Alaphlippe is carrying his nation’s hopes but it was Thomas de Gendt who literally led from the front in yesterday’s gruelling stage.
Golf-wise I was gutted not to follow Jeremy Chapman’s advice on the Austrian slugger Bernard Wiesberger handily placed as leader in the Scottish Open.
I’m keeping my powder dry for next week’s Open at Royal Portrush.
Oh the burgers and hot dogs delicious were delicious on the new barbie with a nice bottle of chilled Provence rose as recommended by our very own Algy.