Only one man fits the "horses for courses" theory in the Spanish Open which continues its nomadic trek of recent years by returning to El Prat after an absence of 17 years. But Seve Ballesteros, who won the title over this track in 1981, isn't really a realistic bet - even at 80 to 1 - to capture the title this week. Instead, his compatriot, Jose- Maria Olazabal, carries the favour- ite's tag into the tournament. Nevertheless, the 7 to 1 about Ollie isn't particularly appetising considering the quality of the field which also includes Bernhard Langer and Ian Woosnam and better value can be obtained further down the listings.

In fact, Thomas Bjorn - the only Ryder Cup player from Valderrama not to receive an invitation to the US Masters - should return to action with something to prove and, at 25 to 1, is a decent bet. Bjorn has had his ups and downs on the circuit this season but at least has a win under his belt (the Heineken Classic in Perth) and is a born competitor. Anyone considering an each- way bet could do worse than plump for Sweden's Patrick Sjoland who can be had at 40 to 1, the same price as Padraig Harrington who won this title two years ago when it was held at Club de Campo.