A Journey of Resilience and Redemption
This remarkable victory represents a significant milestone, marking my first professional win since 2008. The road to this achievement has been anything but easy. Last year was particularly challenging, with a series of setbacks culminating in a low point at The Open at Troon and the Senior British at Carnoustie. Despite the narrow fairways at Carnoustie, which didn’t immediately translate into better performance, I knew I needed to make some changes.
Seeking Guidance and Making Changes
My 18-year-old son, Luke, had been working with Mike Thomas, and I was impressed by the way Mike communicated and his keen eye for detail. I reached out to him after the first round at Troon, and he helped me understand what was going wrong and why I was struggling. With his guidance and the support of my long-time instructor, Randy Smith, I began a rigorous period of training and practice. The realization that I had become a bit complacent after my initial success on the tour was a wake-up call. I knew I had to rededicate myself to the game, and it took time to see the results, but the consistency in my game started to improve by the fall of 2022.
The Commitment and Dedication
Everyone on the tour works hard, putting in long hours and making sacrifices. I was no exception. I decided to use the off-season to my advantage, dedicating myself to early mornings in the gym and consistent practice sessions. I could have taken a break, but I chose to stay focused and continue working. A friend shared a verse from Galatians 6:9, which reminded me to be patient and persistent, knowing that the effort would eventually pay off. This mindset helped me stay grounded and focused on the process rather than the outcome.
The Path to Victory
The journey was a long one, spanning 17 years between wins. There were moments of impatience, but I never doubted my ability to win again. I reminded myself that I had won before and that I was still a winner, even if it had been a long time since my last victory. The key was to stay focused on the daily tasks and the incremental improvements. When I turned 48, I realized I couldn’t wait until 50 to start playing more seriously. I began to practice more regularly, even though it was challenging to maintain a consistent routine in Colorado, where winters can be harsh. The decision to commit fully to the game in the fall of 2022 was a turning point, and it’s gratifying to see the results now.
The Role of Family and Support
This victory is a testament to the support and encouragement of my family. Golf is an individual sport, but it takes a team effort to succeed. My wife, Amanda, and my children have been incredibly supportive, understanding the sacrifices and the hard work that go into pursuing this dream. They see the effort I put in when I’m at home, and sharing this achievement with them makes it all the more special. It’s a reminder that the hard work and dedication are not just for personal gain but for the entire family.
The Unexpected Joys and Lessons
One of the most surprising aspects of returning to the tour has been the work ethic of the other players. When I first visited a Senior PGA event while working for NBC, I was struck by the dedication and intensity of the players, even at 4:00 PM on a Tuesday. This experience set my expectations and prepared me for the level of commitment required to compete at this level. The journey has been fulfilling, and the unexpected joys and lessons along the way have made this victory even more meaningful.
