For now, Butler's a big water hazard

Even with eight holes and 50 acres under water after Friday'sdeluge, Western Open officials believe Butler National golf coursewill be ready for Thursday's first round.

Brian Fitzgerald, public relations director of the Western GolfAssociation, said Salt Creek, which meanders through the course, wasexpected to crest within 24 to 36 hours.

"Then, 48 hours after that, we can begin the cleanup, hopefullywithout too much more rain," Fitzgerald said. "We received 8 1/2inches of rain in 16 hours. There are people going around in boatsout there. The worst holes are 1, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 18.

"When you get a hole under water, you know the water is deep.The …