Admittedly, I usually watch after the final cut. That's when the stakes are at their highest. Rory led during the first three rounds and was looking calm heading into Sunday afternoon. At 21 years old, he would be achieving what many seasoned golfers have only dreamed. Though, with a green jacket on the line, players were coming out of the woodwork to take a shot at victory. Rory bogied the first hole, which foreshadowed the eventual 8+ score on the day. He hit the lip of the bunker on the second, went swimming on the back nine, and never recovered. I feel bad for the guy-he seemed nice.
Tiger had a phenomenal front nine performance! Two birdies, an eagle, and his red shirt blazing in the sun. Even though he didn't pull off a win, being 5- on the day, and at least having a shot at the title, was enough to satisfy my wishes as his fan. He played a great round of golf. Unfortunately, so did other guys. Adam Scott and his long putter were swinging their way to the top of the leaderboard, along with Charl Swartzel. Seriously, that South African made some terrific shots. I'm sure the announcers groaned with the frequency of attempting to correctly say his name.
In the end, Swartzel emerged with the win, edging out Adam Scott and the rest of the competitors. The Aussies' hopes of finally having one of their own win the Masters were sunk with Charl's putt. Better luck next year, mate.
Before I conclude this post, I would like to mention a few of my thoughts on the greatness of the Masters:
1. The beauty of Magnolia Lane and the tradition that thickly hangs all around you.
2. The British commentators that deliver such classic lines as, "the ball touched down like a butterfly with sore feet."
3. Rooting against players and seeing them crumble.
4. When someone hits the lip of the bunker, tees off into the pines, has a shot obstructed by a tree, or hits his ball into the water.
5. Seeing the joy of hitting the green slowly fade as the ball rolls back down onto the fairway. Better get your chipper!
6. When a player has to attempt a shot from a completely different hole (i.e. Adam Scott).
7. Seeing everyone flinch when a player takes off his hat or visor because of how matted the hair is, and how white the forehead appears after being in the sun for almost a week.
8. The golf gods punishing anyone who is stupid enough to use a long putter.
All in all, it was a GREAT weekend of golf! I laughed, I cheered, and, most of all, I was continually entertained.
