The most unthinkable, unbelievable and unlikely story, Tom Watson leads the Open Championship heading into the final round. The day began with the regular crowd of players checking in (at Pheasant Run) and commenting on the unlikely. Can Tom Watson really do it? Can he win The Open Championship? I don't think anyone really thought he could. We put our hearts on the line last year when Greg Norman filled us with promise, only to see his game slowly crumble in the final nine. Dare we think it again?
But this was different. After all it was Tom Watson and The Open Championship. He has hoisted the Claret Jug 5 times. He is the worlds best links player. As the round progressed, the comments I heard from players making their way through the golf shop started to change. "Watson's still hanging in there" and "He's going to do it". The complexity of the round was changing rapidly, the tournament lead was shuffling hands. Yet, Watson remained steady, not more than a single stroke from the leader.
Admittedly, my nerves were on edge. I was pacing from the Cafe then back to the Golf Shop. I could feel the excitement surging, anticipating the final moments. I finally sat down with a few members who were gathering in the Cafe. Events like this bring together an unlikely cast of personalities. Members who never play together or even know one-another were sitting together. "Dobri" and "Dr. Bob" were doing their best to keep me calm.
All Watson needed now was a par on the final hole. Tee shot in the middle of the fairway. Done. Approach shot to the center of the green. Almost done. Now all that remained was a short chip and a putt. History is in the balance. Putting from the short rough to 8 feet past. My heart is racing. Adrenaline is pumping. I feel sick. 8 feet for history. 8 feet for Tom. 8 feet for me to cheer.
8 feet of heart-break. Tom Watson, you are still my Champion.
mark@sharpegolf.ca
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