Dive into our exclusive look at the QBE Shootout kicking off on 8 December at the iconic Tiburon Golf Club.
The 2017 PGA Tour wraps up with this spectacular event, the 29th running of a unique team competition hosted by golf legend Greg Norman. Previously known as the Shark Shootout and Franklin Templeton Shootout, it’s a gathering of 12 dynamic paired teams including the top-ranked US women’s player, Lexi Thompson. The event adds excitement by pairing Thompson with the powerful Tony Finau, offering a fresh twist to the competition.
QBE Shootout | 8 December – 10 December | Tiburon Golf Club, Florida
The Gold Course at Tiburon is a classic tree-lined layout featuring rolling fairways flanked by pine trees and water hazards on many holes, ensuring plenty of drama given the team format. The first two days spotlight the pro-am, while the main event starts Friday. Friday features a scramble format, Saturday a modified alternate shot, perfect to utilise Lexi Thompson’s skills, and Sunday concludes with a potentially exciting better ball format, especially if Tony Finau’s tee shots get a bit wild.
Top favourites Harris English and Matt Kuchar, two-time winners and consistent contenders, are leading the pack. The event draws 15 of the world’s top 50 players, including notable champions like Zach Johnson and Bubba Watson who bring extra flair.
Past Winners
2016: Harris English and Matt Kuchar
2015: Jason Dufner and Brandt Snedeker
2014: Jason Day and Cameron Tringale
2013: Harris English and Matt Kuchar
2012: Sean O’Hair and Kenny Perry
Outright Winners Odds
English and Kuchar 4/1, Chappell and Kisner 13/2, Harmon and Perez 15/2, Hoffman and Johnson 15/2, Bradley and Steele 9/1
Fantastic Value Bets to Watch
Kevin Kisner and Kevin Chappell – To Win at 13/2
This duo is a solid bet with consistent form and proven skill. Kisner just placed fourth at the RSM Classic, while Chappell claimed the Valero Texas Open title. Their performance this season positions them as a strong contender with minimal weaknesses.
Brandt Snedeker and Bubba Watson – To Win at 9/1
A wildcard pair with immense talent, Bubba is a double Masters champion and Snedeker a prior winner here in 2015. They may be inconsistent recently, but the team format plays to their strengths and could see them make a big impact.
Sean O’Hair and Steve Stricker – To Win at 20/1
A value bet both financially and sentimentally. Both have won this tournament before and have decent recent form. Stricker’s leadership and O’Hair’s experience could surprise fans.
Team to Beat: Brian Harmon and Pat Perez – To Win at 15/2
Harmon and Perez bring a powerful combination of precision and raw power. Harmon recently had several top finishes and almost clinched a major, while Perez is in incredible form after winning the CIMB Classic. They are poised for a strong finish.
Written by Damien Kayat for @Hollywoodbets