32 | December 2017 #juniorgolfmag Visit us at juniorgolfmag.net GAZING FROM THE GALLERY BY RANDY SCHULTZ , SENIOR EDITOR Golf’s Rich History Showcases Its Special Nature T he sporting gods and ghosts seem to hover over the game of golf like virtually no other pastime, with baseball perhaps the lone exception. What serious golfer, for instance, cannot tell you the significance of the Green Jacket, discuss the formidable nature of the Road Hole at St Andrews or remember fondly a shot long before their time, Gene Sarazen’s double eagle 4-wood at Augusta? The rich history and traditions ofthis often perplexing game are among the most important elements that make it so respected and loved. Even junior golfers, with a relatively short past to re- flect upon, have heard the stories, seen the old video clips and felt the energy of the game’s iconic moments seeping from the fairways and greens of our most fa- mous courses. The landmarks and gentle reminders are everywhere. The lighthouse at Harbour Town Golf Links. The wicker baskets on the flagsticks at Merion Golf Club’s East Course. The Claret Jug, a symbol of Britain’s championship golfer of the year since 1873. The keepers of the flame, such as the PGA, USGA, R&A and other official and unofficial golf governing bodies, have done a good job of preserving those traditions and embracing that history. Movies and books, as well as stories traveling through word of mouth, bring life and passion to these special events and customs. Golf’s reverence for true sportsmanship helps to shape them to where they become bigger than life. For those reasons, there is a delicious satisfaction in the retelling of historic competitions such as the legendary “Duel in the Sun” at Turnberry, in 1977. In that mesmerizing British Open, Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus fought neck-and-neck down the stretch, 10 shots ahead of their nearest competitor. Watson finally claimed the trophy on the 72nd hole, in a manner near- ly matched by Henrik Stenson in his spellbinding win over Phil Mickelson, in the 2016 Open at Royal Troon. Arnold Palmer’s electrifying come-from-behind win at the 1960 U.S. Open also claims its place in golf’s famous lore, as does Johnny Miller’s closing round 63 at Oakmont. New memories – like Doc Redman’s improbable U.S. Amateur win – are being made too, mingling with old traditions for the perfect synergy of golfing generations. From the intense competition and national pride of the Ryder Cup, to the perilous three-hole swing around Amen Corner or the final round slog down the Blue Monster at Doral, certain hallmarks of the game are ingrained in our memory banks. They grow in stature through the years and give even the youngest among us a sense of golf’s greatness. Every little detail seems to have a unique story behind it. The concept of caddies, for instance, is said to be more than 400 years old. According to some histori- ans, they were known originally as “cadets,” serving as assistants to Mary, Queen of Scots, for some form of golfthatsheandhersubjectsplayedinthemid1500’s. Today, they remain a critical part of the game, their names and contributions respectfully noted alongside their more recognizable bosses. Though the craft is fading on many golf courses across the nation, it’s still very much a nostalgic facet of the sport. Even the age-old custom ofgranting a better-perform- ing opponent honors – the first shot on the next tee – has earned its niche as an enduring legacy. We grant it almost without thinking, secure in the knowledge that it will be this way for years to come. By accepting, and even embracing, these traditions and captivating historical footnotes, we become more appreciative of the game’s elegant design. And we be- come better, more complete players because of it. So it doesn’t hurt to step back, from time to time, and look at golf through the prism of its past. To recall the roar of Arnie’s Army, the Golden Bear’s ageless Grand Slam pursuits or the steely-eyed greatness of Tiger during his phenomenal run of tournament successes. It pushes us to maximize our own talents and claim our own simple victories. With a better understanding ofgolf’shistory,weexpandtheexcitingpossibilitiesfor its future. Coming in our January Issue! Some of the exclusive stories include: • Kids and Legends Partner Up on Champions Tour • Fitness Tips from Gary Player • Getting to Know A&M’s Dazzling Maddie Szeryk • Opening the Doors to Thailand’s Young Stars • Juniors Embrace the Hottest Technology • And many others! Don’t Miss a Single Issue ... Subscribe Today! Print Edition–$ 20 (Just $ 2.50 per Issue) Go to juniorgolfmag.net and click the Subscribe tab – now! Gianna Singh 9 years old – Elk Grove, California • 1st overall US Kids Central Valley Summer Tour 2016 • 3rd overall US Kids Central Valley Spring Tour 2017 • 2018 Drive Chip and Putt sub-regional finalist and still going • Low 9-hole score of 34 • Hits drives 190 yards Gianna works part-time for her grandmother’s food and coffee business to earn extra money for her golf tour expenses. She excels in school, with accelerated learning classes, and also enjoys art, Bollywood dance and organized soccer. You’ve really got it going, Gianna!