Hayden Meikle

For someone who doubted his ability to do anything special this week, David Smail did fine yesterday.

American DJ Brigman is an adventure sport junkie with a unique method of preparing for tournaments.

There is no clear pre-tournament favourite but the Australians, as a nation, are lining up to attack the New Zealand Open at The Hills starting today.

New Zealand Open promoter Bob Tuohy does not yet have an answer to the question on everybody's lips at The Hills.

Jason Gore gave a hearty chuckle when he was asked the question he just knew he was going to be asked at the New Zealand Open.

Manny Villegas has followed his big brother most places, so it is natural he wants to make it to the PGA Tour.

Jay Delsing has some wonderful stories to tell. The veteran golfer is one of the more interesting Americans teeing it up in the New Zealand Open at The Hills today.

A top Nationwide Tour official was not able to shed much light on the future of the New Zealand Open yesterday.

Twelfth in 2007, fourth last year - similar improvement will mean a very happy Josh Geary later this week.

Tim Brasher may be the only caddy at the Michael Hill New Zealand Open who is as well known as his golfer.

Some say golf doesn't attract quite the same level of national pride as rugby or cricket or netball, but tell that to those New Zealanders who have won their country's major tournament.

I can't explain it. Was it the cheeky grin, the distinctive wavy blond hair or the springy running style?

So, what will 2010 bring? Sports editor Hayden Meikle gazes into his (notoriously unreliable) crystal ball to come up with an A to Z of what to expect from the new sporting year.

They've been ignored, mocked and derided - but all they really want is some love. Otago Daily Times sports editor Hayden Meikle identifies 10 sports that deserve a chance.