The field for The International is nearly complete, and with it the potential for a delicious week filled with numerous intriguing subplots.
While the 144 players try to get as many birdies, eagles and double eagles as possible in the tournament’s modified Stableford scoring system, established stars such as Phil Mickelson, Ernie Els, David Toms and Sergio Garcia will be trying to stave off the challenge of up-and-comers such as Camilo Villegas and Ryan Moore. Control players such as Corey Pavin may be paired with big hitters J.B. Holmes and Bubba Watson.
And, with only two tournaments remaining before the 2006 United States Ryder Cup team is finalized, the likes of J.J. Henry, Lucas Glover and 2001 International champion Tom Pernice Jr. will be trying to make an impression on team captain Tom Lehman, who is also in the field.
In addition, Greg Norman is scheduled to make his 2006 debut, and local favorites Shane Bertsch, David Duval and Brandt Jobe, the runner-up a year ago to Retief Goosen, also will be on hand.
Goosen, the world’s fifth-ranked player, is one of four top-10 players in the field, joining Mickelson (No. 2), who won at Castle Pines Golf Club in 1993 and 1997, Els (No. 7) and Garcia (No. 9).
