As the excitement builds at the 151st Open Championship, Georgia Bulldogs’ head football coach, Kirby Smart, extends his well wishes to fellow “Dawgs” Brian Harman and Sepp Straka. With Harman vying for his first major title, Smart showcases his support for the Georgia natives, hoping to witness the prestigious Claret Jug being brought home to Athens.
After Harman’s impressive round on Saturday, Smart took to Twitter to express his encouragement to both Harman and Straka, acknowledging their efforts and aspirations.
“Good luck tomorrow to @harmanbrian and @seppstraka! We need to get the Claret Jug between the hedges this fall! #GoDawgs,” Smart tweeted.
Harman currently holds an impressive 5-shot lead as he approaches the final round, while Straka trails by seven shots. Though it may be a challenge for Straka to catch up, having two Bulldogs in the top five would undoubtedly make a resounding statement.
Smart, an alumnus of the University of Georgia, graduated in the 90s and assumed the head coaching position for the Bulldogs in 2016. In addition to his passion for football, Smart is an avid golfer who embraces every opportunity to hit the course.
Under Smart’s leadership, the Bulldogs have achieved back-to-back national championships in 2021 and 2022. Now, Smart extends his positive energy and good vibes across the Atlantic to England.
Should Harman emerge victorious, Athens would undoubtedly ignite with joy at the sight of the Claret Jug gracing their beloved city this fall. Golf holds a special place in the heart of the Peach State, and countless Georgia fans ardently follow the PGA Tour, affectionately referred to as the “Dawgs.”
If Harman secures the win, he would etch his name in history as the first Georgia Bulldog to triumph at an Open Championship, and the second to claim a major title, following in the footsteps of Bubba Watson, a two-time Masters champion.
Renowned as the Classic City, Athens may soon witness an exciting transformation, transitioning from its traditional name to the well-deserved title of Championship City, bolstered by Harman’s remarkable achievement at The Open.
In this crucial final round, the hopes and dreams of Georgia and Bulldogs fans worldwide are intertwined with Harman’s pursuit of golfing glory. As the final putt rolls, an entire community eagerly awaits the outcome at The Open Championship, placing their faith in the talent and determination of fellow “Dawg” Brian Harman.