Two Months Ago, Brit was Just over 500th in the Rankings…. Now he Leads the US Open!!!

We all like to see an underdog beating the big stars, and Englishman journey man Richard Bland, is now sitting at the top of the US Open field after 36 holes.

Richard Bland

A month after his first European Tour win in his 478th start, 48-year-old Richard Bland becomes the oldest player to take a 36-hole lead/co-lead in the U.S. Open.

Making his second start in the U.S. Open and first since 2009 (MC), he birdied three of his first and last six holes to follow a 1-under 70 in round one with a 4-under 67 in round two

His previous Major championship history was not impressive: 1998 The Open Championship/MC, 2009 U.S. Open/MC, 2017 The Open Championship/T22.

British Masters Winner.

With last month’s win at the British Masters at the age of 48, Bland made history by becoming the oldest first-time winner in European Tour history; win came in his 478th European Tour start.

He has also shot up the rankings and this week stands at 115th in the Official World Golf Ranking.

Whatever happens, Richard Bland will tee off in the last group today, whereas fellow Brits including the likes of Justin Rose, Matt Wallace and Tyrell Hatton will have to watch the action on TV, having all missed the cut.

Knowing these European Tour players, they will be urging on Richard, a true journeyman and nice chap. Even if he falls away over the next 36 holes the name Bland will be on everyone's lips. And a big paycheck will come in handy too.