Golf: Red-hot Ryan Fox relishing another crack at British Open

Ryan Fox of New Zealand during the final round of the French Open. Photo/Photosport

Kiwi Ryan Fox is sure he'll find his second attempt at winning the British Open a more relaxing experience than the first.

In-form Fox and Michael Hendry will tee off at Royal Birkdale, near Liverpool on Thursday, aiming to become the second champion from New Zealand, after Sir Bob Charles in 1963.

While it is the maiden appearance at a Major for 37-year-old Hendry, Fox made his debut two years ago, also at the British Open.

Playing at the famed Old Course at St Andrews, a nervous Fox finished in a share of 49th, having been 25th at the midway point.

A 76 in his third round butchered any hope of threatening the leaders, but it was an invaluable experience.

"I did play some good golf, but the week was a blur," he told the European Tour's website. "I think I'll be a bit calmer this time and be able to enjoy myself a bit more.

"I'd love to be up there again - that's what we play for - I don't have any expectations though. It's been a tough few weeks and I'm feeling a bit tired, but I'll rest the body and mind as best I can beforehand."

Fox, 30, is in a purple patch, having rattled off three successive top-six finishes. He comes off fourth placings at the Irish and Scottish Opens, playing in conditions that are forecast to prevail this week.

"There was quite a bit of wind in Scotland and I've grown up with quite a bit of wind in New Zealand, so I don't mind playing in that.

"I'll aim to keep playing well, but if not, I've had a good few weeks and I still get to play in a Major, which is never a bad thing as a golfer."

Fox and Japan-based Hendry are expected to face the worst of any wind in the first round, after being handed late tee-off times.

Fox's playing partners are American Matt Kuchar and Scotland's Richie Ramsay.

Hendry, who has been battling a back niggle, is grouped with Brian Harman of the United States and Martin Laird of Scotland.