Jack's last walk
Sentimentality replaced cynicism in the pro-sports world for a good little while Friday, as Jack Nicklaus finished up at St. Andrews, playing his 38th and final British Open.
At 3-over for the tournament, it was clear he wasn't going to make the cut when he reached the old Swilcan Bridge at No. 18. So the patrons at the Old Course gave him a rousing sendoff. Jack stopped on the bridge, waved and posed for pictures with Steve, his caddy and son, as well as Tom Watson and Brit Luke Donald and their caddies. Corny, sure. But touching as all get out.
And Jack made a nice birdie putt to end his round at even-par 72. A nice final touch.
But imagine how tough it must have been for Donald, a contender, to keep his focus over those last few holes. I'd say he handled the swell of emotions all around him bloody well, although Tiger Woods was getting away from him (and most everyone else) several holes back.
Comments (1)
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That was about as "moved" as I have ever felt watching a sporting event. When Jack called over Watson and Donald and their caddies for a group photo, that was the height of sportsmanship and class.
Posted on July 16, 2005 9:57 AM