2008 British Open Betting Odds: Sergio Garcia The Favorite

The world of professional golf became much easier for the rest of the season for pro golfers. They no longer have to contend with the best player in the world.

Tiger Woods is no longer a factor to win titles this year, and that is good news for the rest of the golfers. They now believe they have fighting chance to become champions.

This week, the first major without Tiger will begin. The British Open starts on Thursday, and without Woods in the field, it is anyone's guess who will emerge as the champion.

The gambling favorite, according to sports books is Sergio Garcia. He has odds of 8-1 to capture the British Open title. Ernie Els is the second choice at 12-1.

A group of three golfers are all bunched together at 16-1. Lee Westwood, Padraig Harrington, and Phil Mickelson will all be looking to be in the hunt for a championship.

Without Woods in the field it will feel as if something is missing. He has dazzled crowds since coming on the pro scene, and without him, the golf could be a little stale.

It will be up to Mickelson and Garcia to try and lead the way. They will attempt to show this weekend that professional golf is about more than just the unflappable Woods.

The tournament begins on Thursday and will run through Sunday.



2008-07-16