32 years after the famed ‘Duel in the Sun’ Tom Watson teed it up again at the famed Ailsa Course at Turnberry, on the western coast of Scotland. It was the 138th edition of ‘The Open Championship.’ By the way sometime in my lifetime the British Open became The Open Championship; I don’t know when or why this occurred but it just did. But anyway, at age 59 this was supposed to be Watson’s swansong eve leading up to 2010 and St. Andrews, as his 60 birthday would mark the end of his Open playing days. Instead it became almost a brand new beginning.
Although it all started on Thursday with a Watson 65, the whole story really came together on Friday when the world #1 Tiger Wood inexplicably missed the cut for only the 2nd time in a major as a pro. His +5 thru two rounds ‘opened’ up the tournament for everyone who made it to the weekend. Without the threat of Tiger prowling, Watson teed it up tied for the lead on Saturday afternoon. Although it was a cute story that Rick Reilly could cover in sap and eat up, most onlookers pretty much expected Watson to fall by the wayside on the weekend, but the stubborn old codger had other ideas.
When he rolled in a 35ft bomb on the 16th and followed it up with a two putt birdie on the easy 17th, Watson once again slept on an overnight lead in search of his record tying 6th Claret Jug. And like the old lighthouse that sits aside the start of the inward nine, Watson was a beacon of light that ushered in the Tiger generation toward the glory days of golfing past. But could he hold on? Could he fulfill the impossible by becoming the oldest man to ever win a major? Even Greg Norman at a youthful 53, could not hold keep his grip on the very same championship a year earlier at Royal Birkdale. But on Sunday, as the back nine approached, it seemed like destiny was caddying for Watson.
As others stepped-up to take the lead on Tommy, fate would smack them down. Ross Fisher got it to five under and a two shot lead, but a snowman attack ruined his party. Lee Westwood was there all day, but 3 costly bogies coming in spoiled his week in Scotland. Youngster Chris Wood charged from behind, but a nuked 9-iron over the green on 18 that led to a bogey and a 67, not quite enough. Despite a pretty awesome looking beard, Matthew Goggin blew up on the middle of his back nine, right before Watson’s eyes. And tour veteran Stewart Cink missed a bevy of shorter putts coming in, but was able to drill a 15 footer on the 18th to post a clubhouse low two under 278. He was one back of Tommy as Watson bashed a drive right down the gut on the 18th.
That’s all the story I will tell, because I just can’t finish it. Just know that around an hour later and four playoff holes, Cink stood on the 18th green with his wife and two boys (who crazy enough all have the same haircut – I’m sure the boys see their future when they look at their balding Pop) hoisting the historic Claret Jug. And as the special week at Turnberry concluded and the new Cink Suite in the large imposing hotel was named, it was a very gratifying day for one of the tour’s ‘good guys’ who had been so close in major’s past. But it was also, I’m sure, a very difficult one.
As the sun set over western Scotland and the Firth of Clyde and the mighty Irish Sea on Sunday, there was a sense of disappointment amongst the local gatherers. You could stare out in amazement at Ailsa Craig, and still not be able to comprehend what almost happened, and at the same time not comprehend how it didn’t happen. A major legend almost did the unthinkable, over a quarter of a century after he did it last. And as we close another chapter at the world’s oldest golf event, we should all reflect back and not think what could have happened or what might have been; and instead just appreciate what we all witnessed. And when Tommy tees it up next year at The Old Course at St. Andrews and makes that memorable walk across the Swilken Burn Bridge; please stand up, applaud, and welcome him into grand exile with ‘open’ arms – with nothing to hide, believe what I say…wait that's Steve Perry.
Anyway, congrats to Stewart Cink for doing what you had to do. It wasn’t easy and it’s been a long time coming from the 18th green at Southern Hills, but the pressure's off…you’re a major champion, and there's a spot saved for you on Magnolia Lane next spring.
***On a side note, also a congrats to Bo Van Pelt on a win in Milwaukee…it may be a second rate event, and you may be a second rate Van Pelt in the eyes of casual fans (Scotty!!!), but you took it to ‘em!
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
‘Deere’ Steve
We know our tounament is not one of the most prestigious events on the tour schedule, but we’ve been around for quite sometime and we deserve a high caliber champion and not one of those ‘stars’ that play every week ala Vijay Singh or Kenny Perry. We know our place, we’ll never be better then the travel week before ‘The Open Championship’; but we are a humble group, as unassuming as our beginnings when we were known only as the Quad Cities Open. Even when the late Ed McMahon (RIP, guy) was the host and namesake of the event, we all still stick to our Midwestern values and morals that make our event comfortatble and unique.
Speaking of the Midwest and unassuming values, isn’t that you? If memory serves me correct, you are a Wisconsinite growing up in the heart of Big 10 Country. You are a Fighting Illini alum and carry the heart of Illinois with you everywhere you go. And c’mon, our venue is located in the State in which your received your higher education – and its located in the non-Chicagoland hustle, between the two small metros that make up half of the ‘Quad Cities’, the beautiful Moline and Rock Island.
Zach Johnson may tell you that we said the same thing to him about the towns of Davenport and Bettendorf, but that’s just Iowa and we don’t care about them nearly as much! Seriously we don’t! We ain’t Maytag. Anyway, we know you are not a major champion, even though you have had your chances; but we feel you are a perfect world top ten candidate for our event, compared to the others. And let us tell you why:
1. Tiger Woods – he would never play in our event, and we have accepted that.
2. Phil Mickelson – he’s got way to much on his plate, he’s not even play in the Open.
3. Paul Casey – he’s way to Euro…enough said.
4. Kenny Perry – he’s the kind of guy who makse a killing off of events like ours; we need a change.
5. Sergio Garcia – he’s even more Euro…enough said again!
6. Geoff Ogilvy – He ‘comes from a land down under; where women glow and men plunder.’
7. Henrik Stensen – are you serious with all these Euros???
8. Steve Stricker – he’s not brash, he doesn’t wear neon pants, he’s a midwest guy, he’s just right!
9. Jim Furyk – he was an interesting candidate, but we, like everyone else hate Steeler fans.
10. Vijay Singh – does this guy ever take a break? C’mon, take a vacation bro!
Anyway, please take us up on our invitation. Not to sound desperate, but we need some good publicity from a top rated player. And since you commited to play in the tourny, why would you not want to win it? We know its almost better to miss the cut and catch an earlier flight across the pond for the Open, but we’re not chopped liver, and there is quite a bit of money to be made. We know, we know, you’re already in the field at Augusta based on you win at Hogan’s Alley, but how about moving up a couple of slots in the Fedex Cup standings? Just think about it, we’ll make it worth you while.
Eternally grateful,
The John Deere Classic Tournament Committee
Speaking of the Midwest and unassuming values, isn’t that you? If memory serves me correct, you are a Wisconsinite growing up in the heart of Big 10 Country. You are a Fighting Illini alum and carry the heart of Illinois with you everywhere you go. And c’mon, our venue is located in the State in which your received your higher education – and its located in the non-Chicagoland hustle, between the two small metros that make up half of the ‘Quad Cities’, the beautiful Moline and Rock Island.
Zach Johnson may tell you that we said the same thing to him about the towns of Davenport and Bettendorf, but that’s just Iowa and we don’t care about them nearly as much! Seriously we don’t! We ain’t Maytag. Anyway, we know you are not a major champion, even though you have had your chances; but we feel you are a perfect world top ten candidate for our event, compared to the others. And let us tell you why:
1. Tiger Woods – he would never play in our event, and we have accepted that.
2. Phil Mickelson – he’s got way to much on his plate, he’s not even play in the Open.
3. Paul Casey – he’s way to Euro…enough said.
4. Kenny Perry – he’s the kind of guy who makse a killing off of events like ours; we need a change.
5. Sergio Garcia – he’s even more Euro…enough said again!
6. Geoff Ogilvy – He ‘comes from a land down under; where women glow and men plunder.’
7. Henrik Stensen – are you serious with all these Euros???
8. Steve Stricker – he’s not brash, he doesn’t wear neon pants, he’s a midwest guy, he’s just right!
9. Jim Furyk – he was an interesting candidate, but we, like everyone else hate Steeler fans.
10. Vijay Singh – does this guy ever take a break? C’mon, take a vacation bro!
Anyway, please take us up on our invitation. Not to sound desperate, but we need some good publicity from a top rated player. And since you commited to play in the tourny, why would you not want to win it? We know its almost better to miss the cut and catch an earlier flight across the pond for the Open, but we’re not chopped liver, and there is quite a bit of money to be made. We know, we know, you’re already in the field at Augusta based on you win at Hogan’s Alley, but how about moving up a couple of slots in the Fedex Cup standings? Just think about it, we’ll make it worth you while.
Eternally grateful,
The John Deere Classic Tournament Committee
Tiger’s World, Delivered
How can anyone hate the World’s #1? Sure he dominates almost every tournament he enters; he is one of the wealthiest athletes of all time; he chases history everytime he tees it up; and he has a Swedish blonde bombshell of a wife. Wow, I guess I can hate him! Okay, hate is a strong word; but I can definatly be envious of Eldrick. And after capturing his 68th PGA Tour victory at his own event, the AT&T National at Congressional, everyone was envious.
The AT&T National was dreamt up by Team Tiger 3 years ago, as he conjured up a way to personify himself with a single event. Just like all the greats: Jack (Memorial), Arnie (Bay Hill), Hogan (Colonial), Nelson (HP Nelson) – Tiger has put himself himself the same shoes as these legends as a tournament host. But the AT&T National is not all about “the striped one” (kudos to Jim Rome); it’s very special because it is held in the burbs outside our nation’s capital, and honors the men and women service people that protect our country both at home and abroad. And it all happens on the weekend of our nation’s birthday!
Along with all of the pressures and time that come with playing in a PGA tournament, Tiger had the additional time constraints of coordinating, glad-handing and keeping a smile for the media. To me it sounds down right miserable! But not only was Tiger up to the challenge, but exceeded it as only he can do. He consistantly performed throughout the week with his only real obsticles being Anthony Kim’s first round course record, a red hot Sunday Hunter Mahan, and the par four 11th hole at Congressional’s Blue Course.
Let me start with my boy AK. Damn, this kid can play. He fired a course record 62 on Thursday, but could not continue his hot play the rest of the week, finishing only one under in his last 54 holes. And then there was fellow Ryder Cupper Hunter Mahan. He matched AK’s 62 except he did it at money-time; the final round. Teeing off almost two hours before the final pairing of Woods and Kim, Mahan desimated the Blue Course, igniting cheers throughout the rolling hills of Maryland.
And then there’s the lilly-padded 11th hole. I never saw anything take Tiger to his knees quite like this 489 yard hole converted to a par four from a member’s par five. In four rounds he compiled a massive pile of strokes, which left him at six-over on this hole alone! Tiger better be careful at the 2011 US Open, as the 11th will sneak up and bite him again! But I should know that we’re talking about Tiger here, I’m almost positive he’ll be singing his redemption song, entitled #11, in the Open. I’m willing to bet on that!
Despite all the host distractions and roadblocks in his way, Woods was still able to leave his own event victorious. And it was really to no one’s surprise, he is the world’s number and arguably the greatest player in the history of the sport. Here's a quick 09 wrap-up for Tiger so far in only 9 events: 3 wins, 8 top 10’s, 9 top 25’s, 1st in money, and 1st in the Fedex Cup race. Umm, not too bad, but I’m sure he’s not totally pleased as there are no majors mixed in there.
Either way, congrats to Tiger on another victory, once again his 68th. And as for his game and event hosting, in the words of the title sponsor, he ‘delivered’!
The AT&T National was dreamt up by Team Tiger 3 years ago, as he conjured up a way to personify himself with a single event. Just like all the greats: Jack (Memorial), Arnie (Bay Hill), Hogan (Colonial), Nelson (HP Nelson) – Tiger has put himself himself the same shoes as these legends as a tournament host. But the AT&T National is not all about “the striped one” (kudos to Jim Rome); it’s very special because it is held in the burbs outside our nation’s capital, and honors the men and women service people that protect our country both at home and abroad. And it all happens on the weekend of our nation’s birthday!
Along with all of the pressures and time that come with playing in a PGA tournament, Tiger had the additional time constraints of coordinating, glad-handing and keeping a smile for the media. To me it sounds down right miserable! But not only was Tiger up to the challenge, but exceeded it as only he can do. He consistantly performed throughout the week with his only real obsticles being Anthony Kim’s first round course record, a red hot Sunday Hunter Mahan, and the par four 11th hole at Congressional’s Blue Course.
Let me start with my boy AK. Damn, this kid can play. He fired a course record 62 on Thursday, but could not continue his hot play the rest of the week, finishing only one under in his last 54 holes. And then there was fellow Ryder Cupper Hunter Mahan. He matched AK’s 62 except he did it at money-time; the final round. Teeing off almost two hours before the final pairing of Woods and Kim, Mahan desimated the Blue Course, igniting cheers throughout the rolling hills of Maryland.
And then there’s the lilly-padded 11th hole. I never saw anything take Tiger to his knees quite like this 489 yard hole converted to a par four from a member’s par five. In four rounds he compiled a massive pile of strokes, which left him at six-over on this hole alone! Tiger better be careful at the 2011 US Open, as the 11th will sneak up and bite him again! But I should know that we’re talking about Tiger here, I’m almost positive he’ll be singing his redemption song, entitled #11, in the Open. I’m willing to bet on that!
Despite all the host distractions and roadblocks in his way, Woods was still able to leave his own event victorious. And it was really to no one’s surprise, he is the world’s number and arguably the greatest player in the history of the sport. Here's a quick 09 wrap-up for Tiger so far in only 9 events: 3 wins, 8 top 10’s, 9 top 25’s, 1st in money, and 1st in the Fedex Cup race. Umm, not too bad, but I’m sure he’s not totally pleased as there are no majors mixed in there.
Either way, congrats to Tiger on another victory, once again his 68th. And as for his game and event hosting, in the words of the title sponsor, he ‘delivered’!
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
A ‘Perr’ of 09 Wins
In the event following the US Open there is usually not a tremendously strong field, that might be why Kenny Perry was able to capture another win! I know I know it seems like an underhanded blast at one of the tours nicest players (and something I am not really know for), but I swear every time I seem to tune into a tournament my roommate has never heard of, Perry seems to be at the top of the leaderboard. Nonetheless, this victory was Perry’s 2nd of the season and 5th in just over a year!
Earlier this year on Super Bowl Sunday amongst the beer drinking party animals at the FBR Open, Perry was able to outlast the flowing mullet of one Charley Hoffman in three playoff holes. Couple that win with the 2008 John Deere Classic (another one my roommate never heard of) and the Buick Open (and because it’s played near Detroit my roommate won’t recognize) he hasn’t exactly won amongst the who’s who of PGA touring pros. But I will of course tip the cap for his outstanding effort at Jack’s place (Muirfield Village) in 2008 as he brought home the Memorial crown, albeit without Tiger in the field.
But let’s give credit where credit is due. Perry isn’t exactly a child out there. At 48 years of age he has come on very strong at the end of his career to not only stay with the kids, but beat up on the kids. He and Vijay are the old timers out there and look at the resumes between the two in 2008: 6 wins, 1 Fedex Cup and 1 Ryder Cup. Not to bad for the geriatric ward right? But that’s just not enough to convince my roommate that either one are worth a damn.
I really think the thing that really did Perry in with my roommates opinion was his choice to skip two majors (US Open and Open Championship) along with not being in the field at Augusta, in order to help his chances at making the Ryder Cup team in his home state of Kentucky. I don’t know what my roommate hated more his lack of guts or the fact he’s from Kentucky (the reason why he hates JB Holmes); either way it was not seen as good in his eyes. But what does he know right? He lives with me for one, and for the other, Perry was able to secure his slot at Valhalla. Hmm, maybe not so dumb.
The one thing I usually do in these little write-ups is congratulate the winner of said tournament for his entry into the 2010 Masters. Well, just like in many other cases, I don’t have to do that here either. Perry has already punched his ticket to the ‘Tradition Unlike Any Other’ with his T2 performance in the 2009 Masters. T2 is good right? Well of course it is, especially when you lose in a playoff right? Well try telling a very emotional Kenny Perry that following his two-hole playoff with champ Angel Cabrera and Texan Chad Campbell.
Although many times a winner on tour, Perry has yet to win a coveted major. Never really too close in his career he stood on the 71st tee two shots up before faltering with bogies on the two finishing holes! With major chance getting fewer and fewer (especially when you sit them out), I’m sure it was a crippling feeling to a veteran of his caliber. I will say to his credit he has kept his head up and is ready to throw his hat into the ring again…by this I mean defending at the John Deere in two weeks! Anyway, congrats on another win in 2009 Kenny, the Champions are calling you soon.
Earlier this year on Super Bowl Sunday amongst the beer drinking party animals at the FBR Open, Perry was able to outlast the flowing mullet of one Charley Hoffman in three playoff holes. Couple that win with the 2008 John Deere Classic (another one my roommate never heard of) and the Buick Open (and because it’s played near Detroit my roommate won’t recognize) he hasn’t exactly won amongst the who’s who of PGA touring pros. But I will of course tip the cap for his outstanding effort at Jack’s place (Muirfield Village) in 2008 as he brought home the Memorial crown, albeit without Tiger in the field.
But let’s give credit where credit is due. Perry isn’t exactly a child out there. At 48 years of age he has come on very strong at the end of his career to not only stay with the kids, but beat up on the kids. He and Vijay are the old timers out there and look at the resumes between the two in 2008: 6 wins, 1 Fedex Cup and 1 Ryder Cup. Not to bad for the geriatric ward right? But that’s just not enough to convince my roommate that either one are worth a damn.
I really think the thing that really did Perry in with my roommates opinion was his choice to skip two majors (US Open and Open Championship) along with not being in the field at Augusta, in order to help his chances at making the Ryder Cup team in his home state of Kentucky. I don’t know what my roommate hated more his lack of guts or the fact he’s from Kentucky (the reason why he hates JB Holmes); either way it was not seen as good in his eyes. But what does he know right? He lives with me for one, and for the other, Perry was able to secure his slot at Valhalla. Hmm, maybe not so dumb.
The one thing I usually do in these little write-ups is congratulate the winner of said tournament for his entry into the 2010 Masters. Well, just like in many other cases, I don’t have to do that here either. Perry has already punched his ticket to the ‘Tradition Unlike Any Other’ with his T2 performance in the 2009 Masters. T2 is good right? Well of course it is, especially when you lose in a playoff right? Well try telling a very emotional Kenny Perry that following his two-hole playoff with champ Angel Cabrera and Texan Chad Campbell.
Although many times a winner on tour, Perry has yet to win a coveted major. Never really too close in his career he stood on the 71st tee two shots up before faltering with bogies on the two finishing holes! With major chance getting fewer and fewer (especially when you sit them out), I’m sure it was a crippling feeling to a veteran of his caliber. I will say to his credit he has kept his head up and is ready to throw his hat into the ring again…by this I mean defending at the John Deere in two weeks! Anyway, congrats on another win in 2009 Kenny, the Champions are calling you soon.
Major Rain ‘Glove’s
As the 2009 US Open approached most people were very interested in how some of the changes made to the fabled Bethpage Black Course would affect the players. What was unforeseen was whether the weather would dominate the Black Course. With all the focus coming into the week on Tiger Woods pursuit of Major #15 and Phil Mickelson’s endless focus on winning an Open in front of a raucous Long Island crowd that could even carry him thru the week; what flew under the radar was a long shot champ and an epic story. Although the two favorites never really went away in the final round, it wasn’t your normal Monday finish at a US Open.
The real story of the week was the rain that suspended play for almost the entire first round of the championship and what will be seen for a lot of people as the luck of the draw. The players that were in the Thursday morning and Friday afternoon draw, i.e. Tiger Woods, were subject to awful conditions for both of their first and second rounds, while the other wave, i.e. Phil Mickelson, enjoyed a sunny soggy Bethpage to fire darts at! When the cut was finally made on Saturday afternoon a very unanticipated twosome from the second wave were paired in the final grouping – once a winner on tour Lucas Glover and former US Amateur Champion Ricky Barnes.
As the pairing made their way thru the hills of the Long Island New York State Park on Sunday (the tournaments 3rd round), it seemed to be a two horse race between Barnes and Glover. Although at one point in time Ricky had gotten it to a scorching 11-under par, but a few loose swings and a short miss on the 18th green lead to his matching of Glover’s even par 70 and still only a one shot lead. Mickelson was still within eyeshot at six shots back while Tiger was still a thought in people’s minds back eight shots of two inexperienced front runners.
Although many felt as if Barnes and Glover were stories enough, there was a lurking story that began to intrigue the New York gallery. One time World’s #1 and current 800+ ranked David Duval was in contention. Although robotic and almost standoffish when he was in his prime, this new look less fit more acknowledging Duval really started to win the crowd over as he entered the final round only five shots back of Barnes. Duval had cashed in one major in his prime, an Open Championship at Royal Lytham St. Anne’s, but an opportunity to cash in again so unexpectedly years and injuries later (i.e. back, wrist, vertigo), got the crowd even more excited.
As the final round began and Barnes began to hemorrhage shots early and often, the leaderboard started to become crowded. Glover, Barnes, Lefty, Duval, Mahan, Fisher and even Tiger were all still in the picture. Woods posted an early even par 280, but most knew it would be a few short. As the rest carved their way thru the back nine there was an unmistakable roar from the 13th green! Yes, just as the New Yorkers hoped Phil stuck a shot onto the par 5 green in two and sunk the subsequent 8 footer for eagle to tie him with Glover at the time for the lead. But as Lefty tends to do he was not able to take advantage 14or 18 and mixed in a bogeys at 15 and 17 to falter.
After a rather blah day, Duval also made some noise on the inward nine birdying 14, 15 and 16 to get himself at one point in a tie for the lead with Glover at 3-under par. But a fatal lip-out on the 17th green and a birdie by Glover on the 16th lead to a quick two shot swing between those two and Barnes. Duval posted a -2 278 after paring the 18th. Barnes burned the edge on a 15ft birdie putt and Glover was able to sink a less pressure packed five foot roller to secure his first major title.
And after a tumultuous week of weather delays and no sleep, the native South Carolinian Glover stood upon that overcast afternoon on the 18th green at Bethpage Black holding up the trophy to his national championship. He is now a major winner – and as for that newly granted invite to Augusta…
Let’s just say it fits like a “Glove!”
The real story of the week was the rain that suspended play for almost the entire first round of the championship and what will be seen for a lot of people as the luck of the draw. The players that were in the Thursday morning and Friday afternoon draw, i.e. Tiger Woods, were subject to awful conditions for both of their first and second rounds, while the other wave, i.e. Phil Mickelson, enjoyed a sunny soggy Bethpage to fire darts at! When the cut was finally made on Saturday afternoon a very unanticipated twosome from the second wave were paired in the final grouping – once a winner on tour Lucas Glover and former US Amateur Champion Ricky Barnes.
As the pairing made their way thru the hills of the Long Island New York State Park on Sunday (the tournaments 3rd round), it seemed to be a two horse race between Barnes and Glover. Although at one point in time Ricky had gotten it to a scorching 11-under par, but a few loose swings and a short miss on the 18th green lead to his matching of Glover’s even par 70 and still only a one shot lead. Mickelson was still within eyeshot at six shots back while Tiger was still a thought in people’s minds back eight shots of two inexperienced front runners.
Although many felt as if Barnes and Glover were stories enough, there was a lurking story that began to intrigue the New York gallery. One time World’s #1 and current 800+ ranked David Duval was in contention. Although robotic and almost standoffish when he was in his prime, this new look less fit more acknowledging Duval really started to win the crowd over as he entered the final round only five shots back of Barnes. Duval had cashed in one major in his prime, an Open Championship at Royal Lytham St. Anne’s, but an opportunity to cash in again so unexpectedly years and injuries later (i.e. back, wrist, vertigo), got the crowd even more excited.
As the final round began and Barnes began to hemorrhage shots early and often, the leaderboard started to become crowded. Glover, Barnes, Lefty, Duval, Mahan, Fisher and even Tiger were all still in the picture. Woods posted an early even par 280, but most knew it would be a few short. As the rest carved their way thru the back nine there was an unmistakable roar from the 13th green! Yes, just as the New Yorkers hoped Phil stuck a shot onto the par 5 green in two and sunk the subsequent 8 footer for eagle to tie him with Glover at the time for the lead. But as Lefty tends to do he was not able to take advantage 14or 18 and mixed in a bogeys at 15 and 17 to falter.
After a rather blah day, Duval also made some noise on the inward nine birdying 14, 15 and 16 to get himself at one point in a tie for the lead with Glover at 3-under par. But a fatal lip-out on the 17th green and a birdie by Glover on the 16th lead to a quick two shot swing between those two and Barnes. Duval posted a -2 278 after paring the 18th. Barnes burned the edge on a 15ft birdie putt and Glover was able to sink a less pressure packed five foot roller to secure his first major title.
And after a tumultuous week of weather delays and no sleep, the native South Carolinian Glover stood upon that overcast afternoon on the 18th green at Bethpage Black holding up the trophy to his national championship. He is now a major winner – and as for that newly granted invite to Augusta…
Let’s just say it fits like a “Glove!”
‘Don We Now Our…
...Gay Apparel’ – I never in my right mind though that I would blog about Brian Gay twice in the matter of two millennia, let alone two months. But here I am, after his impressive victory at the St. Jude Classic blogging about Brian Gay – again! As mentioned after his ever-impressive victory at the Verizon Heritage (*see 10 Shot Rule) Gay has a flamboyant way about his appearance, but not necessarily his game. Compared to the shades of orange, pink and purple (the metro in me would say: apricot, magenta, and lavender) his swing and putting stroke are about as flashy as famed Ferris Bueller teacher Mr. Ben Stein.
Now this is not at all a rip on Gay’s game; he’s made it perfectly clear that he more than belongs on the Tour, but more of a description of his how he plays the game. Although Gay has not been the most consistent of performers in the 2009 season, when he’s shined thru, he has done it with confidence and pure utter blandness. He is a fairways and greens guy!
After entering the final round with an already sizable lead he put together another spot on round of 66 to clinch up the title – the only down note being that he won by only half the margin of his victory at Harbourtown. But that was five strokes which showed how dominating he really was back in mid-March. And although it has taken this former Gator All American quite some time to get into the groove of the PGA Tour, in 2009 he has more then secured himself as a force to be reckoned with!
I guess it’s true what they say (who are they and why is their opinion so important? Just something I’ve always wondered) about success breeding success, as Gay is a perfect example of that saying. As the middle of the year draws to a conclusion and we approach the 2nd major, Gay has put himself where he needs to be entering the stretch run toward the playoffs and the race for the Fedex Cup – in the top five! I can’t say whether or not he will be in contention at Bethpage this upcoming week, but what I’m fairly confident about are his chance of being their near the end as we wander toward Eastlake North.
With his 2nd win in 2009 Gay has joined Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson and Zach Johnson as two time winners this season. And for those of you who can’t keep count that’s seven Green Jackets! Although Gay has already punched his ticket for Augusta with his win in Hilton Head, I’m sure those visions of Azalea’s dancing in his head will go great with a Fedex Cup; or maybe even a President’s Cup. Either way there are a lot of players out there who will be more than happy to stand in his way.
Now this is not at all a rip on Gay’s game; he’s made it perfectly clear that he more than belongs on the Tour, but more of a description of his how he plays the game. Although Gay has not been the most consistent of performers in the 2009 season, when he’s shined thru, he has done it with confidence and pure utter blandness. He is a fairways and greens guy!
After entering the final round with an already sizable lead he put together another spot on round of 66 to clinch up the title – the only down note being that he won by only half the margin of his victory at Harbourtown. But that was five strokes which showed how dominating he really was back in mid-March. And although it has taken this former Gator All American quite some time to get into the groove of the PGA Tour, in 2009 he has more then secured himself as a force to be reckoned with!
I guess it’s true what they say (who are they and why is their opinion so important? Just something I’ve always wondered) about success breeding success, as Gay is a perfect example of that saying. As the middle of the year draws to a conclusion and we approach the 2nd major, Gay has put himself where he needs to be entering the stretch run toward the playoffs and the race for the Fedex Cup – in the top five! I can’t say whether or not he will be in contention at Bethpage this upcoming week, but what I’m fairly confident about are his chance of being their near the end as we wander toward Eastlake North.
With his 2nd win in 2009 Gay has joined Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson and Zach Johnson as two time winners this season. And for those of you who can’t keep count that’s seven Green Jackets! Although Gay has already punched his ticket for Augusta with his win in Hilton Head, I’m sure those visions of Azalea’s dancing in his head will go great with a Fedex Cup; or maybe even a President’s Cup. Either way there are a lot of players out there who will be more than happy to stand in his way.
Out of the Woods
Stat: Fairways Hit; Percentage: 87.5%; It was no doubt that accuracy was the determining factor at the 2009 Memorial Tournament held at Jack’s place, also known as the picturesque Muirfield Village Golf Club. Held less then a mile from this bloggers place of employment [yes, contrary to popular belief I do have a real job] in Dublin, Ohio, Muirfield is the Golden Bear’s crowning jewel of all of his turf creations. And once again, like so many times before at Jack’s home, Tiger seized what was his – another championship – his 4th to date.
A rainy Wednesday afternoon seemed like a perfect prelude and unmistakable foreshadowing to what was going to happen. The proud host put together a legendary skins game on the famed grounds. With a few skins still up for grabs on the 18th, Woods drained an 8 footer to halve the hole and force a chip-off for the remaining skins. After Jack stuck one within 3 feet Tiger, who always has a flair for the dramatic, sunk the chip to clinch the competition. That was only the beginning.
Tiger is Tiger – I don’t have to go into detail on his background. If you don’t know who Tiger is then you just suck at life. But anyway, if you were the most detail oriented anal-retentive dude in the world, you might point out that the weakness in Tiger’s game is accuracy off the tee, and obviously I am splitting hairs. But at Memorial ’09 Mr. Woods was as impressive off the tee as he was in ’06 in the unseasonably sweltering heat at Royal Liverpool in Hoylake. And on top of that, he actually hit a driver in Dublin – and kept it ‘out of the woods!’
Woods put on a driving clinic at Muirfield splitting the fairway 49 of 56 times, and continued to hit it with typical Tiger length. But because of atrociously bad putting he entered the final round 4 shots back of PGA Tour novices Mark Wilson and Matt Bettencourt. As Tiger lit the course on fire with birdies on Sunday the two leaders faded as quick as the roars of the Tiger crowd thru the tall oaks. As players tried to contend with the World’s #1, he smacked them all away with two of the most clutch approach shots of the year. After staking it to within 5-feet on the 71st hole he outdid himself by sticking a 7-iron from 186 yards within a foot of the cup on the 72nd green to seal the deal and carding a memorizing 65.
Every time I see Tiger shake the Golden Bear’s hand, to me, it seems like a passing of the torch from the great to the greatest. Although Tiger will not be able to pass Jack’s record 18 majors at the 2010 Masters, he can move ever closer to immortality. He will be seeking his 5th Green Jacket next Spring to pass legendary Arnold Palmer and move within one jacket of Nicklaus. Every time Tiger wanders up Magnolia Lane and approaches the beauty of Augusta National he is always the favorite. And as I look back on his first major win, the “win for the ages” at Augusta, I couldn’t draw up a better scene then the record breaker 19th happening at the hallowed grounds. Congrats to Tiger on your 67th Tour victory (I know he reads this).
A rainy Wednesday afternoon seemed like a perfect prelude and unmistakable foreshadowing to what was going to happen. The proud host put together a legendary skins game on the famed grounds. With a few skins still up for grabs on the 18th, Woods drained an 8 footer to halve the hole and force a chip-off for the remaining skins. After Jack stuck one within 3 feet Tiger, who always has a flair for the dramatic, sunk the chip to clinch the competition. That was only the beginning.
Tiger is Tiger – I don’t have to go into detail on his background. If you don’t know who Tiger is then you just suck at life. But anyway, if you were the most detail oriented anal-retentive dude in the world, you might point out that the weakness in Tiger’s game is accuracy off the tee, and obviously I am splitting hairs. But at Memorial ’09 Mr. Woods was as impressive off the tee as he was in ’06 in the unseasonably sweltering heat at Royal Liverpool in Hoylake. And on top of that, he actually hit a driver in Dublin – and kept it ‘out of the woods!’
Woods put on a driving clinic at Muirfield splitting the fairway 49 of 56 times, and continued to hit it with typical Tiger length. But because of atrociously bad putting he entered the final round 4 shots back of PGA Tour novices Mark Wilson and Matt Bettencourt. As Tiger lit the course on fire with birdies on Sunday the two leaders faded as quick as the roars of the Tiger crowd thru the tall oaks. As players tried to contend with the World’s #1, he smacked them all away with two of the most clutch approach shots of the year. After staking it to within 5-feet on the 71st hole he outdid himself by sticking a 7-iron from 186 yards within a foot of the cup on the 72nd green to seal the deal and carding a memorizing 65.
Every time I see Tiger shake the Golden Bear’s hand, to me, it seems like a passing of the torch from the great to the greatest. Although Tiger will not be able to pass Jack’s record 18 majors at the 2010 Masters, he can move ever closer to immortality. He will be seeking his 5th Green Jacket next Spring to pass legendary Arnold Palmer and move within one jacket of Nicklaus. Every time Tiger wanders up Magnolia Lane and approaches the beauty of Augusta National he is always the favorite. And as I look back on his first major win, the “win for the ages” at Augusta, I couldn’t draw up a better scene then the record breaker 19th happening at the hallowed grounds. Congrats to Tiger on your 67th Tour victory (I know he reads this).
‘Strick’ly Business
They call it ‘Hogan’s Alley.’ But on the map of Fort Worth, TX it is simply seen as Colonial Country Club; a throwback course that takes extreme precision and accuracy and tremendous putting to be successful. Its narrow fairways, subtle breaking greens, and gritty setup almost personify the club’s nicknames namesake – Ben Hogan.
If someone told me that Steve Stricker would be the champion at Colonial, I would say…’Yeah that sounds about right!” Talk about a course that sets up perfect for a player. Not to steal from Juno MacGuff, but I will by saying Colonial seems like the macaroni to Stricker’s cheese. Over the past few years Stricker has been amongst the top of the tour in fairways hit and putting stats – two things that are a must at Hogan’s Alley. I would call him a very businesslike player; nothing flashy, but consistently efficient.
Stricker is one of the most interesting stories on the PGA Tour over the past decade and a half. As the first and only two-time comeback player of the year, it is pretty evident that he has had a roller coaster career. But in the past 3 years in his second resurgence he has climbed to as high as 5th in the World Rankings and has won twice along with a slew of top 10’s. He is currently 8th in the world and has continually functioned businesslike with his optimum consistency and flawless putting stroke.
Entering Sunday at Colonial two shots back of 3rd round leader, the ever-accurate Tim Clark, Stricker fired a 2 under 68 to force a playoff with Clark and long-hitting Steve Marino. And when it mattered the more experienced Stricker prevailed in two playoff holes. Per usual the always emotional Stricker welled-up a little when discussing his victory with CBS’s on course reporter David Feherty. And who could blame him after all he’s been thru in his career.
I would not have thought his 2010 Masters status was up in the air, but it’s always safe to, in the words of John and Jeremy Ryan, ‘lock it up,’ and Strick did it in businesslike fashion. Fairways, greens and putting; these are the cornerstones of Stricker’s game and are increasingly important ingredients for success at Augusta National. I would never call Stricker a favorite to win a major, but the one thing I know is that he will make it his ‘business’ to contend, and his recent track record has been proof of that. See ya in April Steve-O.
If someone told me that Steve Stricker would be the champion at Colonial, I would say…’Yeah that sounds about right!” Talk about a course that sets up perfect for a player. Not to steal from Juno MacGuff, but I will by saying Colonial seems like the macaroni to Stricker’s cheese. Over the past few years Stricker has been amongst the top of the tour in fairways hit and putting stats – two things that are a must at Hogan’s Alley. I would call him a very businesslike player; nothing flashy, but consistently efficient.
Stricker is one of the most interesting stories on the PGA Tour over the past decade and a half. As the first and only two-time comeback player of the year, it is pretty evident that he has had a roller coaster career. But in the past 3 years in his second resurgence he has climbed to as high as 5th in the World Rankings and has won twice along with a slew of top 10’s. He is currently 8th in the world and has continually functioned businesslike with his optimum consistency and flawless putting stroke.
Entering Sunday at Colonial two shots back of 3rd round leader, the ever-accurate Tim Clark, Stricker fired a 2 under 68 to force a playoff with Clark and long-hitting Steve Marino. And when it mattered the more experienced Stricker prevailed in two playoff holes. Per usual the always emotional Stricker welled-up a little when discussing his victory with CBS’s on course reporter David Feherty. And who could blame him after all he’s been thru in his career.
I would not have thought his 2010 Masters status was up in the air, but it’s always safe to, in the words of John and Jeremy Ryan, ‘lock it up,’ and Strick did it in businesslike fashion. Fairways, greens and putting; these are the cornerstones of Stricker’s game and are increasingly important ingredients for success at Augusta National. I would never call Stricker a favorite to win a major, but the one thing I know is that he will make it his ‘business’ to contend, and his recent track record has been proof of that. See ya in April Steve-O.
Hear Me ‘Ror-y’, Softly
In his vertern career Rory Sabbatini has been seen as an outmatched villain amongst US golf fans. After some loose words directed toward all world superstar Tiger Woods and his beat-ability at the Wachovia Championship a few years ago, Sabbatini became the Peter McNeeley to Tiger’s Mike Tyson. A he proceeded to walk in the Hurricane’s shoes with a final round flop that gave Woods the tourny. The Monty-like treatment Sabbatini received from American golf fans for that time was definitely warranted, but just as time does to most foot in mouth comments, Rory faded back to golf-novice obscurity.
After this relative rise and fall from notoriety the South African became like a mid-summer rainstorm in the Midwest, just an occasional blip on the radar. He’s even since had a few brushes with greatness at Augusta going as high as T2 in Zach Johnson’s 2007 victory. But other than his 20th place this year at the Masters his next best finish in a major was his T26 in the 06 Open Championship – Tiger’s carnage of Royal Liverpool. These are mediocre numbers by comparison to players that are seen as in the same caliber.
Major championship struggles aside; Rory has embedded himself as a mid to high-level member of the PGA Tour. This evidence could be confirmed by his decimation of the Resort Course at TPC Four Seasons, which is home of the HP Byron Nelson Tournament. In a two shot victory Sabbitini acted more like the tournament’s namesake then the brazen youngster he was a few years ago. He finished up with class and dignity all the while embracing his young children, and clad in a pink shirt signifying his support of Amy Mickelson recent diagnosis.
This was Sabbatini’s 5th career victory on tour, and was the 2nd half of his adopted hometown sweep; to go with his 07 ‘Crowne’ at Colonial. As a resident of the Dallas / Ft. Worth area and member of the PGA Tour, he showed his maturity by expressing how much it has meant to him winning two tournaments that bear the names of two of the greatest names in the history of golf. He has come a long way from the 05 Booz Allen Classic!
For those of you golf fans in blogland who have forgotten this gem of a story; it involved Sabbatini, Ben Crane, frustration, and slow play. Crane is a notorious slow player. So slow in fact that 02 Sergio thinks it takes him awhile to pull the trigger! Anyway, Sabbatini had enough of Crane’s act as after finishing up on the 17th green he decided to tee it up on the 18th and abandon his playing partner on the 17th green! Crane finished the 17th to find Sabbatini halfway down th e 18th fairway. Another dick move! But as they would’ve said in Boston if he was a ‘Red Sauk,’ “That’s just Rory being Rory.”
Welcome to Augusta in 2010 Rory, it’s good to see you’ve grown up and shut up!
After this relative rise and fall from notoriety the South African became like a mid-summer rainstorm in the Midwest, just an occasional blip on the radar. He’s even since had a few brushes with greatness at Augusta going as high as T2 in Zach Johnson’s 2007 victory. But other than his 20th place this year at the Masters his next best finish in a major was his T26 in the 06 Open Championship – Tiger’s carnage of Royal Liverpool. These are mediocre numbers by comparison to players that are seen as in the same caliber.
Major championship struggles aside; Rory has embedded himself as a mid to high-level member of the PGA Tour. This evidence could be confirmed by his decimation of the Resort Course at TPC Four Seasons, which is home of the HP Byron Nelson Tournament. In a two shot victory Sabbitini acted more like the tournament’s namesake then the brazen youngster he was a few years ago. He finished up with class and dignity all the while embracing his young children, and clad in a pink shirt signifying his support of Amy Mickelson recent diagnosis.
This was Sabbatini’s 5th career victory on tour, and was the 2nd half of his adopted hometown sweep; to go with his 07 ‘Crowne’ at Colonial. As a resident of the Dallas / Ft. Worth area and member of the PGA Tour, he showed his maturity by expressing how much it has meant to him winning two tournaments that bear the names of two of the greatest names in the history of golf. He has come a long way from the 05 Booz Allen Classic!
For those of you golf fans in blogland who have forgotten this gem of a story; it involved Sabbatini, Ben Crane, frustration, and slow play. Crane is a notorious slow player. So slow in fact that 02 Sergio thinks it takes him awhile to pull the trigger! Anyway, Sabbatini had enough of Crane’s act as after finishing up on the 17th green he decided to tee it up on the 18th and abandon his playing partner on the 17th green! Crane finished the 17th to find Sabbatini halfway down th e 18th fairway. Another dick move! But as they would’ve said in Boston if he was a ‘Red Sauk,’ “That’s just Rory being Rory.”
Welcome to Augusta in 2010 Rory, it’s good to see you’ve grown up and shut up!
Champions Aren’t Always Bigger in Texas
Don’t let his diminutive stature and small town look fool you, Iowan Zach Johnson has big game. In the final Valero Texas Open played at the famous La Cantera Resort in the city of the Alamo, Johnson stepped up and completed a great week of ball striking. Just like the first hill of the roller coaster at Six Flags Fiesta Texas, the spectacular backdrop at La Cantera, Johnson elevated himself to the top of the Fedex Cup points following his 2nd victory of the season and his 2nd straight at this event. ***see 2009 Sony Open.
Repeating isn’t easy for anybody, but this little guy has a big heart and isn’t a stranger to the limelight. As an Augusta lifer with his 07 Green Jacket, it’s not like Johnson needed a win to get into the April field, but it just shows how much of a fighter he really is. This constant overachiever has propelled himself into one of the top players on tour. And this progress has been a steady progression.
A win in Atlanta, a Ryder Cup (granted he was on the Ryder Cup team that “participated” at the K Club in Ireland and got absolutely ran by the Euros; this stellar squad featured such standouts as Vaughn Taylor, JJ Henry, and Brett Wetterich; it has been widely regarded as the worse Ryder Cup in history, and I agree.), a Green Jacket, and a two time winner. Is the Fedex Cup next?
This champ is starting to “walk the line” of greatness; Like the Emporer of Rome he is sitting on the top rung of his specific cast system. And although this whole situation may seem as scary and surprising as an M. Night flick, Johnson has not shown any “signs” of slowing down. Okay fine…I’ve had enough of these damn puns; he also strikes an impeccable resemblance to actor Joaquin Phoenix – pre-beard.
Let me preface all of this by saying that Tiger is obviously the king of kings in the world of golf, but as of now in 09 Johnson can look stare at the man in red and say, ‘scoreboard.’ In a world of big it is good to see a little guy like Johnson take the lead in his sport. We’ve been so conditioned to accept the Lebrons and the Tigers and the Bonds and the Tomilinsons of the world that when a Calvin Borel gets his foot in the door it is that damn impressive.
Big is big, but steady is steady – and Zach knows he’s always welcome to take that stroll down Magnolia Lane!
Repeating isn’t easy for anybody, but this little guy has a big heart and isn’t a stranger to the limelight. As an Augusta lifer with his 07 Green Jacket, it’s not like Johnson needed a win to get into the April field, but it just shows how much of a fighter he really is. This constant overachiever has propelled himself into one of the top players on tour. And this progress has been a steady progression.
A win in Atlanta, a Ryder Cup (granted he was on the Ryder Cup team that “participated” at the K Club in Ireland and got absolutely ran by the Euros; this stellar squad featured such standouts as Vaughn Taylor, JJ Henry, and Brett Wetterich; it has been widely regarded as the worse Ryder Cup in history, and I agree.), a Green Jacket, and a two time winner. Is the Fedex Cup next?
This champ is starting to “walk the line” of greatness; Like the Emporer of Rome he is sitting on the top rung of his specific cast system. And although this whole situation may seem as scary and surprising as an M. Night flick, Johnson has not shown any “signs” of slowing down. Okay fine…I’ve had enough of these damn puns; he also strikes an impeccable resemblance to actor Joaquin Phoenix – pre-beard.
Let me preface all of this by saying that Tiger is obviously the king of kings in the world of golf, but as of now in 09 Johnson can look stare at the man in red and say, ‘scoreboard.’ In a world of big it is good to see a little guy like Johnson take the lead in his sport. We’ve been so conditioned to accept the Lebrons and the Tigers and the Bonds and the Tomilinsons of the world that when a Calvin Borel gets his foot in the door it is that damn impressive.
Big is big, but steady is steady – and Zach knows he’s always welcome to take that stroll down Magnolia Lane!
How ‘Swede’ It Is
As the English translation of the 3rd and 4th lines of the Swedish National Anthem states, “We greet you as loveliest land upon Earth; Your shining sun, your sky, your pastures green.” In terms of American golf these lines could undoubtedly be in the description of the Stadium Course at the Tournament Players Club at Sawgrass. Maybe not pure natural beauty, but beauty nevertheless. As evening crept in amongst the mounds, man made pools, and grainy white sands on Sunday of the Players Championship, the Swedish flag was raised in celebration of the new Players Champion. – his name is Henrik Stensen.
In the short history of the PGA tour’s “5th major,” not many Sunday trips around the stadium have been as masterful as Stensen’s bogey free 6-under 66. ‘Master’ful being the operative word. DL3’s 64 amongst the heavy gales in 2003, Freddy’s 64 in 1996, and Stephen Ames dominating 67 in 2006 come to mind. But to those three’s delight (*especially Ames), neither one of those rounds included the world’s number one Tiger Woods in the final pairing of the day – Stensen’s did! *See the 2006 Accenture Match Play.
Although Stensen didn’t have to stare into the eye of the Tiger, I don’t really know if it would even have mattered. The cool, calm, and collected Swede stood stone faced over every tee-shot, iron, and putt he faced; all the while jabbering Swedish nothings into the waiting ears if famed caddie Fanny Sunessen. Fanny, might I add, is no stranger to success in the spotlight as she walked the lush rolling rolls of Augusta National with it’s eye-popping colorful azalea bursts; while looping for Nick Faldo for two of his three Green Jackets.
Although Stensen is and has been a top ten player worldwide for the past few years and a staple at all major championships; surprisingly he had yet to win a stroke play event in the US. His only American victory came at the 2007 WGC Accenture Match Play event, which consists of one of the best fields in any tournament worldwide. And on a side note: I’m usually not one to brag but yours truly has a penned in bracket from that 2007 Match Play event with Henrik Stensen’s name in the championship slot. Yes, amazingly enough, I picked the winner that year. And, yes, I can confirm…I am the man. But anyway…
Just like some the foreign born players over the past couple of years, this huge victory should propel Stensen from recognized name amongst novice American golf fans, to an actual recognized face. He will join names like Geoff Ogilvy, Adam Scott, Sergio Garcia, and Paul Casey; as non-Americans who have established themselves with wins not only worldwide, but on the American stage. And that’s where the money’s at! The Star Spangled Banner may not be as beautifully written as the Swedish National Anthem, but it is the “land of the free and home of the” bling! Congrats to Hanrik on his biggest win yet!
Please note, I have no intention of mentioning Alex Cjeka’s collapse. It was difficult to watch and would be more difficult to rehash. Like the ghosts of Van de Velde’s past, some things are just best left unmentioned!
In the short history of the PGA tour’s “5th major,” not many Sunday trips around the stadium have been as masterful as Stensen’s bogey free 6-under 66. ‘Master’ful being the operative word. DL3’s 64 amongst the heavy gales in 2003, Freddy’s 64 in 1996, and Stephen Ames dominating 67 in 2006 come to mind. But to those three’s delight (*especially Ames), neither one of those rounds included the world’s number one Tiger Woods in the final pairing of the day – Stensen’s did! *See the 2006 Accenture Match Play.
Although Stensen didn’t have to stare into the eye of the Tiger, I don’t really know if it would even have mattered. The cool, calm, and collected Swede stood stone faced over every tee-shot, iron, and putt he faced; all the while jabbering Swedish nothings into the waiting ears if famed caddie Fanny Sunessen. Fanny, might I add, is no stranger to success in the spotlight as she walked the lush rolling rolls of Augusta National with it’s eye-popping colorful azalea bursts; while looping for Nick Faldo for two of his three Green Jackets.
Although Stensen is and has been a top ten player worldwide for the past few years and a staple at all major championships; surprisingly he had yet to win a stroke play event in the US. His only American victory came at the 2007 WGC Accenture Match Play event, which consists of one of the best fields in any tournament worldwide. And on a side note: I’m usually not one to brag but yours truly has a penned in bracket from that 2007 Match Play event with Henrik Stensen’s name in the championship slot. Yes, amazingly enough, I picked the winner that year. And, yes, I can confirm…I am the man. But anyway…
Just like some the foreign born players over the past couple of years, this huge victory should propel Stensen from recognized name amongst novice American golf fans, to an actual recognized face. He will join names like Geoff Ogilvy, Adam Scott, Sergio Garcia, and Paul Casey; as non-Americans who have established themselves with wins not only worldwide, but on the American stage. And that’s where the money’s at! The Star Spangled Banner may not be as beautifully written as the Swedish National Anthem, but it is the “land of the free and home of the” bling! Congrats to Hanrik on his biggest win yet!
Please note, I have no intention of mentioning Alex Cjeka’s collapse. It was difficult to watch and would be more difficult to rehash. Like the ghosts of Van de Velde’s past, some things are just best left unmentioned!
By An ‘O’ Hair
On a spring afternoon in Charlotte, North Carolina there were no ghosts of Southern Swing’s past for tour up-and-comer Sean O’Hair. There were no dances with death on an island green, and although a Tiger was on the loose, it seemed to be more hibernating then prowling. But still it wasn’t easy.
Playing in the 2nd to last group with a two shot lead, O’Hair stood on the 72nd green with a 20 foot birdie putt. When he motored the putt 5 feet past he left himself, in Feherty’s words, “a nerve jangler.” His return putt only grazed the edge of the cup and he stood stone-faced with only a one shot lead and Lucas Glover in the 18th fairway. Although O’Hair was saved by harmless Glover par, I’m sure he had visions of 5 weeks prior on the mind.
O’Hair slept on a 5 stroke Saturday night lead over Tiger Woods but was awoken on the 72nd green with a slick curling 15 foot exclamation point from the world’s number one. It was a painful moment for a guy who has endured definite disappointment in the past. It was only 2 springs prior that O’Hair was paired in the final group with Hefty Lefty at the Players Championship and heartbreak ensued. He kerplunked two balls into the water on the famous 17th island green, which dashed any possibility of his victory in the tour’s 5th major.
For those who aren’t aware of O’Hair’s past, here’s the skinny. He was a wide-eyed 17 year old kid coming off his junior year in high school when he turned pro. A golfing prodigy as a youth, he survived junior golf without being burned out, despite the pressuring efforts of his old man. Papa O’Hair really did a number on Sean. It was a struggle for a very long time. He was on and off the game and was very hard on himself and had no sympathy from his father. O’Hair overcame a lot and now over a decade later from his turning pro, after waiting out a nerve racking Lucas Glover, he is now a 3 time PGA tour winner!
Although O’Hair punched his ticket to the 2010 Masters at the 2009 Masters by finishing in the top 16 & ties [T10], adding a win to the resume is always a positive step for a young player. Adding the fact that he won a tourney with Tiger in the field should add at least an extra scoop on his ice cream cone. Enduring tumultuous meltdowns and fiery competitor comebacks, O’Hair has still remained confident and should be a player to be reckoned with as he enters the prime of his career.
Playing in the 2nd to last group with a two shot lead, O’Hair stood on the 72nd green with a 20 foot birdie putt. When he motored the putt 5 feet past he left himself, in Feherty’s words, “a nerve jangler.” His return putt only grazed the edge of the cup and he stood stone-faced with only a one shot lead and Lucas Glover in the 18th fairway. Although O’Hair was saved by harmless Glover par, I’m sure he had visions of 5 weeks prior on the mind.
O’Hair slept on a 5 stroke Saturday night lead over Tiger Woods but was awoken on the 72nd green with a slick curling 15 foot exclamation point from the world’s number one. It was a painful moment for a guy who has endured definite disappointment in the past. It was only 2 springs prior that O’Hair was paired in the final group with Hefty Lefty at the Players Championship and heartbreak ensued. He kerplunked two balls into the water on the famous 17th island green, which dashed any possibility of his victory in the tour’s 5th major.
For those who aren’t aware of O’Hair’s past, here’s the skinny. He was a wide-eyed 17 year old kid coming off his junior year in high school when he turned pro. A golfing prodigy as a youth, he survived junior golf without being burned out, despite the pressuring efforts of his old man. Papa O’Hair really did a number on Sean. It was a struggle for a very long time. He was on and off the game and was very hard on himself and had no sympathy from his father. O’Hair overcame a lot and now over a decade later from his turning pro, after waiting out a nerve racking Lucas Glover, he is now a 3 time PGA tour winner!
Although O’Hair punched his ticket to the 2010 Masters at the 2009 Masters by finishing in the top 16 & ties [T10], adding a win to the resume is always a positive step for a young player. Adding the fact that he won a tourney with Tiger in the field should add at least an extra scoop on his ice cream cone. Enduring tumultuous meltdowns and fiery competitor comebacks, O’Hair has still remained confident and should be a player to be reckoned with as he enters the prime of his career.
‘Bayou’ Field, Hello Augusta
Any tournament is better with Jerry Kelly in the field, right? We surveyed 100 PGA tour pros and asked them this question and emphatically they all responded with a resounding ‘yes!’ After Kelly’s one shot victory in New Orleans at the Zurich Classic, he officially got his invite to the 2010 Masters. Although this isn’t Jerry’s 1st rodeo, I think it is quite relieving for a player of Jerry’s veteran status to clinch up a win.
Known for years and years as one of the most likable players on tour, I’m sure for almost all, it’s good to see Kelly punch his ticket to Augusta. In fact, back in ’07 he was a major player in the outcome of the years first major. After being in contention all week he took a hit in the heavy Saturday winds and eventually faded on the back nine on Sunday and finished in a tie for 5th, his best ever finish at Augusta.
But Kelly has never been a guy who felt like he lost out on his chance. He’s one of those “happy to be there” kind of guys. Don’t get me wrong he’s a true competitor, what pro athlete isn’t? But he’s not an intimidator and seems to be more of a friend then an enemy on the course. He’s the kind of guy whose good for a one-liner or a punchy self-critical joke about himself. A fine mix of Woody Austin and Paul Goydos. In the 2003 “Open Championship” Kelly withdrew after the first round after firing an opening round 86, which included a septuple-bogey 11 on the first hole (septuple is ‘tuple” language for 7). When asked how he made an eleven on the first Kelly ryely responded with a grin:
“I made a thirty footer!”
Although Kelly is in the field at next year’s Masters, he shockingly declined an invite to the 2009 “Open Championship” at Royal Turnberry in Scotland. There was no disrespect in what he did, as he stated he wanted to play in his hometown event in Milwaukee, which is the tour-stop that runs opposite the “Open Championship.” Kelly has always been a Midwest family man who appreciates his roots and this critically acclaimed decision as an astonishing example of this. Or maybe that 11 was creeping back into his mind!
Anyway, congrats on the win in “Nah-lins” and welcome back to Augusta Jerry, you’re always a pleasant fixture in the field.
Known for years and years as one of the most likable players on tour, I’m sure for almost all, it’s good to see Kelly punch his ticket to Augusta. In fact, back in ’07 he was a major player in the outcome of the years first major. After being in contention all week he took a hit in the heavy Saturday winds and eventually faded on the back nine on Sunday and finished in a tie for 5th, his best ever finish at Augusta.
But Kelly has never been a guy who felt like he lost out on his chance. He’s one of those “happy to be there” kind of guys. Don’t get me wrong he’s a true competitor, what pro athlete isn’t? But he’s not an intimidator and seems to be more of a friend then an enemy on the course. He’s the kind of guy whose good for a one-liner or a punchy self-critical joke about himself. A fine mix of Woody Austin and Paul Goydos. In the 2003 “Open Championship” Kelly withdrew after the first round after firing an opening round 86, which included a septuple-bogey 11 on the first hole (septuple is ‘tuple” language for 7). When asked how he made an eleven on the first Kelly ryely responded with a grin:
“I made a thirty footer!”
Although Kelly is in the field at next year’s Masters, he shockingly declined an invite to the 2009 “Open Championship” at Royal Turnberry in Scotland. There was no disrespect in what he did, as he stated he wanted to play in his hometown event in Milwaukee, which is the tour-stop that runs opposite the “Open Championship.” Kelly has always been a Midwest family man who appreciates his roots and this critically acclaimed decision as an astonishing example of this. Or maybe that 11 was creeping back into his mind!
Anyway, congrats on the win in “Nah-lins” and welcome back to Augusta Jerry, you’re always a pleasant fixture in the field.
10 Shot Rule
Brian Gay is a mid 30-something PGA tour journeyman. Entering mid-April’s Verizon Heritage event he had one ‘semi-official’ win on tour, and had fought hard and bounced back and forth from the mini-tours to ‘the show’ since the mid-90’s. His only ‘show’ victory came at the 2008 Mayacoba Classic in sunny Mexico. FYI – this tournament runs opposite the Accenture Match play, which consists of the 64 top ranked players in the world. So needless to say, the Mayacoba field wasn’t exactly full of the Tigers, Leftys or even Camilos of the world. It was more like newly tour-carded competitors, young Champions Tour gents, and even the experienced Nationwide guys getting their shot in the show. But a wins a win I guess.
Although Gay cannot shake the grade school wisecracks and jokes about his last name or the neon pants he wears, he can break away from the moniker of being a non relevant tour winner.
It was seen as a lazy relaxing Sunday stroll in between the lob-lolly pines and their dry needles swaying in the gentle early spring costal breeze of South Carolina [how bout those adjectives! Feels like your right there doesn’t it!]. Entering the final round of the Verizon Heritage Classic Gay held a commanding 7 shot lead that, if relinquished, would’ve been the choke of the year. Instead – his birdie, eagle start propelled Gay to the biggest victory in the long standing history of the Heritage Classic. By the time he turned to the inward nine he had the same amount of holes left as the size of his lead. Is this the equivalent of stroke play dormie?
Clad in lime green pants, a trendy tight white polo, a modern visor, blonde tips and a spitfire engraved belt buckle, Gay continued his Sunday onslaught on Habourtown Golf Links…and terrible fashion. I’m sure between Gay’s gay [but sharp] lime green pants and two time defending champion Boo Weekley’s camo hats and shirts the tournament committee has been mighty frustrated with their grand champions apparel. But lets face it, these old guys and their prestigious tartan red plaid jackets aren’t exactly the sharpest dressed fellas your gonna find. Garb aside, Gay was on top of his game recording a tournament low 20 under par 264! The only resistance he met in his 72 hole ride were 2 bogeys that were as harmful to his endeavor as a season finale loss to Philly was to the #1 seeded Cleveland Cavs. He was dominant!
And now the wait begins. As a man who has as much Masters experience as me, Gay has earned his way into the “tradition unlike any others” in April of 2010. And that is the only real problem with winning the Heritage – the long year round rate wait your guarantee tee time at Augusta National. But all and all, I’m sure gay is mighty gay about it in the end.
Although Gay cannot shake the grade school wisecracks and jokes about his last name or the neon pants he wears, he can break away from the moniker of being a non relevant tour winner.
It was seen as a lazy relaxing Sunday stroll in between the lob-lolly pines and their dry needles swaying in the gentle early spring costal breeze of South Carolina [how bout those adjectives! Feels like your right there doesn’t it!]. Entering the final round of the Verizon Heritage Classic Gay held a commanding 7 shot lead that, if relinquished, would’ve been the choke of the year. Instead – his birdie, eagle start propelled Gay to the biggest victory in the long standing history of the Heritage Classic. By the time he turned to the inward nine he had the same amount of holes left as the size of his lead. Is this the equivalent of stroke play dormie?
Clad in lime green pants, a trendy tight white polo, a modern visor, blonde tips and a spitfire engraved belt buckle, Gay continued his Sunday onslaught on Habourtown Golf Links…and terrible fashion. I’m sure between Gay’s gay [but sharp] lime green pants and two time defending champion Boo Weekley’s camo hats and shirts the tournament committee has been mighty frustrated with their grand champions apparel. But lets face it, these old guys and their prestigious tartan red plaid jackets aren’t exactly the sharpest dressed fellas your gonna find. Garb aside, Gay was on top of his game recording a tournament low 20 under par 264! The only resistance he met in his 72 hole ride were 2 bogeys that were as harmful to his endeavor as a season finale loss to Philly was to the #1 seeded Cleveland Cavs. He was dominant!
And now the wait begins. As a man who has as much Masters experience as me, Gay has earned his way into the “tradition unlike any others” in April of 2010. And that is the only real problem with winning the Heritage – the long year round rate wait your guarantee tee time at Augusta National. But all and all, I’m sure gay is mighty gay about it in the end.
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