The value of golf history. Watching the Memorial Tournament introduction of Johnny Miller and writer John Garrity into their Hall of Fame shines a light on how the past shapes the future. Johnny Miller best known for his famous final round 63 at the 1973 US Open at Oakmont (could have been lower if some putts had dropped) is a great role model for today young guns.Why? Like the studs from yesterday; Sneed, Hogan, Nelson, Palmer, Player, Casper, Nicklaus, Weiskopf and so many others, they played the game aggressively and never forgot the fans. Some will say that was not true of Hogan but when you dive into the history books you find a kind gentle mentor of the game of golf.Today’s players have talent, no question. But they also have entourages, fitness programs, sponsor obligations, private jets and no appreciation for what established the PGA Tour. Last week Hal Sutton on the radio program stated that his winner’s check for the 1983 PGA Championship at Rivera was $100,000! Jason Day’s check for this year’s Players Championship was $1.8 million and 2nd place paid $1.3 million!The golf tour has become the money tour. Play hot for one week and become a millionaire. Life is not that simple. I understand the hours of practice, dedication to the game and God given talent. But golf is about the comradery, the beauty of the course, the challenge of the elements and most importantly the thousands of fans standing mere feet away outside the ropes and in front of the TV screen.Jordan Spieth has shined a light on a new makeup of today’s golfer with Jason Day, Rory McIlroy and Rickie Fowler close behind. Maybe tomorrow the golf tour holds out hope for more fan high five’s and golf comradery.
Smokin Joe
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