By Casey O'Connor
I cannot say that I am an avid watcher of major golf tournaments, probably still suffering the trauma of watching Greg Norman’s loss to Larry Mize at Augusta in 1987 but I found this year’s US Masters riveting. Not sure if that has any anything to do with my lack of enthusiasm for the current state of the NRL.
I rode every hole in the final round with Aussie Cam Smith and watched as his chances slipped into the water at the 12th as he racked up a heartbreaking triple-bogey. Amen Corner claiming another victim. Smith fought on gamely to tie for third his third top-five at Augusta.
While I was rooting for Smith, you cannot take anything away from the winner Scottie Sheffler who played outstanding golf throughout the tournament. He looked cool, calm and focused throughout the final 18 holes.
Undoubtedly one of the biggest cheers from the crowd was reserved for Tiger Woods as he played out the 18th hole.
While his last round was a long way from his best, that Tiger was even playing the last 18 holes at Augusta in 2022 after what he has endured following his car accident in February 2021 is perhaps one of the greatest achievements of his career. It should serve as an inspiration to us all to never give up and never say never.
Cameron Smith is now ranked number five in the world and will certainly not give up on his ambition to win at Augusta. It is a course which he says he feels comfortable playing and is obviously not daunted by despite his hiccup at the infamous Amen Corner.
Let’s hope the Aussie champ fulfills his ambition, and a green jacket awaits he and his mullet in 2023.
Casey
CASEY’S FOOT TIPS NRL ROUND SIX
Cowboys; Rabbitohs; Panthers; Sea Eagles; Storm; Roosters; Dragons; Eels
