The Masters has been run and won. Once again it dished out some amazing drama and was compulsive viewing for us golfers.
Here’s my take:
- Phil Mickelson made one mental error (his tee shot on 12) that probably cost him shooting one of the best ever rounds in major golf. It nearly seems unfair but is why golf is such a great test.
- I couldn’t believe the commentators gave Phil that putt on 15. I’m not a big fan of commentary but conceding a tricky 4 footer is a big no no. I wasn’t surprised when he missed.
- Statistics should only be used as a guide. When Perry was playing 17 with a two shot lead the commentators were quick to point out he hadn’t had a bogey for 22 holes. I think they were saying that he was unlikely to make another. Pity he bogeyed 3 of his last 4 holes (including the playoff holes) as I think he deserved to win. Although useful at times, statistics can’t predict the future.
- Chad Campbell played great golf – a bit unlucky and a terrible way to exit the tournament.
- Couldn’t believe Tiger said he had the worst warm up he has ever had. I don’t think this should matter. Warming up before the round is just that – warming up. It isn’t a measure of how one is going to play. This is one of the first times I’ve heard Tiger say something that isn’t positive and bordering on being average.
- Angel Cabrera played a gritty round of golf. He never looked like winning in regulation and was all but out of it on the first playoff hole. His up & down for par on the 19th was one of the best efforts I’ve seen. He also made great putts on 16 and 18 in regulation. His performance was the perfect example of playing golf – he wasn’t playing great golf but still managed to play the last eight holes in 3 under par. Sometimes it is possible to play well, even when things aren’t going to plan.
- No matter how much experience we have golf can still be a difficult game. Despite playing almost perfect golf at the age of 48, Kenny Perry stumbled at the final hurdle. It was painful to watch and something I hope he can recover from. It was mentioned he took three years to get over his PGA collapse in 1996 – this one could take longer. I hope not as his performance should serve as inspiration for all.
Now that an Argentinian has won at Augusta it must be time that an Australian achieves this feat. We’ve managed to get close a few times but haven’t managed to get over the line. Maybe next year…