I have just tried the open at St Andrews as a Pro and pulled out at the 18th.
Why ? Because I was at 11 over par mainly due to poor equipment.
I was unable to reach the fairway on 5 occasions - 1,4,5,14 and 15.
I did exchange my driver for what is supposed to be a better one - 100 credits, but I find that most times I am outdriven by everyone and my timing is very close or spot on most of the time. I appreciate that going for the Open Tournament we are playing of the tournament tees but if you can't reach the fairway - what's the point of trying. I could wait until there is no wind - like never - or just stop playing in those. Disappointing though.
Make it hard by all means but let's not make it impossible. OK, so I am not willing to spend money on equipment so I guess it's all about money and as I am a pensioner I cannot afford to do so.