OPINION: For all the cynicism that envelops modern sport, there is still a place for romance and tonight, the 146th edition of golf's British Open will remind us how brilliant live sport can be.
As the eldest of the four majors, most of the game's greats dream of lifting the Claret Jug. It possesses an iconic status, illustrated by the somewhat erroneous claim that goes with it - 'Champion Golfer of the Year'.
So, what makes The Open so special? Well, along with its glittering history of dramatic finishes and memorable moments, you literally see the enthusiasm and awe coursing through the players' veins.
They walk with an extra bounce, vitality and joy, propelled by the extremely knowledgeable gallery, living every shot.
It's a refreshing antithesis to the birdie-friendly US Tour, with its lush contours, Bermuda grass and fake palm trees. The event is played on links courses - these are generally coastal, with sand dunes, delightfully treacherous rough, undulating greens and behest to the random influence of mother nature, with wind being its most vicious instrument of destruction.
This is what makes The Open such a unique 72-hole adventure. It's a true test of ability, a great leveller, and even the Americans relish the challenge. It's not about how long you drive; it's about how well you can position the ball and avoid trouble.
In recent times, the big boys have come to the party. The past five winners have been: Henrik Stenson, Zach Johnson, Rory McIlroy, Phil Mickelson and Ernie Els. The demise of Tiger Woods is felt acutely this week, considering he's taken the Claret Jug home on three occasions. In terms of an English winner, you have to go back a staggering 25 years, to Nick Faldo.
Predicting the victor at this tournament is often a fool's errand, but there are a few serious contenders. The favourites' tag has to sit at the feet of Dustin Johnson, Jordan Spieth and Rickie Fowler while Justin Rose, Jon Rahm and McIlroy are just one notch back.
Former perennial bridesmaid Phil Mickelson is even worth a mention as he thrives under the spotlight. Whilst earning berths in the tournament, Michael Hendry (who will tee off at 11.31pm NZT) and compatriot Ryan Fox (12.37am NZT) will do well to make the cut at this vicious and often unyielding course.
For what it’s worth, I fancy Rahm, Hideki Matsuyama and Alex Noren.
With the weather always a huge factor, the Birkdale forecast is relatively calm-ish for the first round, with the wind and rain making its presence felt as the weekend progresses. So, someone in good form, who can shoot an early 65 and exert clubhouse pressure could be the go.
But, no matter what happens, there's one more reason to tune in: the somewhat sexist lyrical overtures of commentator Peter Alliss.
It may well be the final Open broadcast for the 86-year-old 'Voice of Golf', who has engaged and enraged in equal measure.
Two years ago, as Zach Johnson was looking to win the title in a playoff, Alliss dropped this clanger.
As Johnson's nearest and dearest waited nervously on the 18th, "Wife Kim looking on, anxiously thinking, 'If this goes in, we’ve got a new kitchen.'"
Johnson missed the putt with Alliss putting his foot right in it. But he doesn't care… and with his soothing, mellifluous voice, delivering engaging tales of yore and unbounded enthusiasm, neither do I. He's just another reason to fall in love with one of the most romantic annual events on the sporting calendar.
Alex Bell is a contributor to Newshub Sport
