Senior Golf Tournament Tees Off in Newport Beach

When 1991 British Open champion winner Ian Baker-Finch tees off at the Champions Tour $1.7 million Toshiba Classic in Newport Beach today he's not exactly aiming to claim the title.

"I'm not out here thinking I'm going to come out here and compete and be a part of the tour,'' the Australian golfer and CBS Sports commentator told City News Service. It's just a joy to be out here. It really is.''

Baker-Finch has learned to put things in perspective after his British Open victory was followed by a steep spiral down. As hard as he tried and as good as he looked in practice, when it came time to compete he lost confidence and he was left with just wayward shots.

Baker-Finch played in the tournament's pro-am Tuesday and said "it was good to be out there.''

"The course is fantastic,'' Baker-Finch said. "It's a beautiful spot. It's one of, if not the most favorite, for the guys on the tour. They absolutely love it.''

Baker-Finch said the Newport Beach Country Club course is "similar to the ones we play in Sydney, with gentle, rolling hills and lots of Eucalyptus trees, a sea breeze and heavy air.''

For Baker-Finch, golf still makes him money, but it's when he's behind a microphone, not a putter.

"For 22 weeks I'm on the PGA Tour with CBS Sports,'' Baker-Finch said. "I'm happy to have a good job and the opportunity to play on the Champions Tour.''

This weekend, though, is for fun, not work.

"I'm grateful to be 50 and have the opportunity to play with my old buddies,'' Baker-Finch said.

And so who does the expert analyst think will win the tournament?

"I like Freddy Couples,'' Baker-Finch said. "He's the defending champion and he's in good form. And it's the sort of course that suits his game. I think Freddy's the guy to beat. This course suits the long hitters for sure.''

—City News Service