Fantastic British Open

Yesterday we saw what experience in golf does for someone. Darren Clarke, the grizzled 20 year veteran of worldwide competitive golf finally won his first major championship. The championship lived up to it's billing as the wind and rain washed over the golf course the final two days making life difficult for most of the field.

But in this game, nothing takes the place of experience. NOTHING.

How about 61 year old Tom Watson. Always known as the best "mudder" around, Tom fashioned scores of 72-70-72-72 to finish in a tie for 22nd, besting U.S. Open champion Rory McIlroy by one shot. Having won 5 British Opens, Tom knows how to get his ball around the golf course in the toughest conditions known to golfers.

Darrens' win satisfies the emotions of all the "common man" around the world. He is self described as slightly overweight, likes to smoke cigarettes and cigars and is known to tip back a few pints from time to time. He said if he won the Jug, it would be days before he realized what he had done because he might be a little tipsy throughout the celebration.

So here's to a job well done by a seasoned professional and an all around "good guy". We all can take pride in hoisting one for the Pro and celebrate along with him. Way to go Darren!

Eddie Kilthau
PGA Professional