Gale force winds and heavy rain in St Andrews forced the cancellation of the Champions Challenge, a four-hole event involving 26 past Open golf champions, to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the British Open.
More of the same is expected for the championship proper, although the forecast is for less severe winds.
The bad weather could lead to Open organisers scrapping the controversial planned 40 yard extension of the famous "Road Hole", St Andrews 17th which is already regarded as the "toughest par-4 in championship golf".
The first players tee off in the opening round at 5.30 this evening.
