...and let's not forget the other 152 players in San Diego.
Growing up, my dad always talked about the "three legged chair". The three legs were knowledge, ability, and desire. To define more clearly, let's change the word ability to focus and the word desire to heart. Want to be great - learn your skill completely... stay focused on the goal... have the heart to succeed. Each leg is equal in length; each leg leads to success. Success in life and success in work. As we head into the 2008 season, plenty of people have asked, "Who is the player most likely to chase Tiger?" I personally believe the answer to that question lies in the three legged chair.
Who can put that chair together in 2008? Well, I asked some people whose judgment I respect. All agree there is but one person that can chase Tiger Woods, his name: Phil Mickelson.
There is no question of Phil's knowledge. He is the only player that has the shots. I also have never questioned Phil's heart. It is the focus where Phil seems to be a few inches short. Now, I want you to understand there is nothing wrong with this. Many years ago, I decided spending time with my kids was more important than any job I would ever have.
Over the last month, Tiger Woods has spent more time practicing his craft then perhaps at any time in his career. His desire to succeed, his desire to get better, his focus are at an all time high. I am not sure we can say the same about Phil. Time will tell.
I finally have someone on my side – Last year, I spent a number of these articles proclaiming my belief that Anthony Kim was "IT". I now have someone supporting my right brain thinking. Mark O'Meara said yesterday that at 22, Kim's technique is better than Tiger's was.
Mark said, "He (Kim) could win multiple tournaments a year easily and win major championships. That is how talented he is."
As the youngest rookie on the tour last year, Kim had 5 Top 10 finishes and started 2008 with a third at the Hope.
Here is what separates Tiger from everyone that plays. When Woods was 22, did we ever discuss his being young? Never. Tiger was an old 22. Kim has the knowledge, he has the ability, but Kim is really 22 (I wish I was too) and I question his focus on one and only one goal. I believe he will get there, but for now, Kim will succeed on his knowledge and ability.
Saying goodbye to a friend – Speaking of the three legged chair, Stevie Williams has a perfect chair. He is the greatest caddie of all time. Some of you might remember the name Steve Duplantis. Steve worked with Rich Beem and for a time with Tommy Armour III. Many believe his skills were equal to those of Williams. Beem said, "He was the first person who showed me the value of a good caddie."
Steve Duplantis died early Wednesday. He was hit by a taxi cab while trying to cross the street in San Diego. He was there to caddie for Eric Axley.
Duplantis could have been the best. I mean it. Ask the guys he caddied for. But that three legged chair had one leg missing. Steve knew the game, knew how to get it across to his players, but Steve's focus outside the ropes went to plenty of different places other than golf. And most of those did nothing but cause him problems. It got to the point were players did not want to take a chance with Steve. Furyk fired him after showing up late one too many times.
You enjoyed being around Duplanits; he made his players better. He just had a tough time doing that for himself. He will be missed.
Thank you Phoenix – I know, I might have been standing alone in my desire to spank John Daly, but not anymore. One of the Tour's most popular events, The FBR Phoenix Open, said no to John. They gave 20 year old, Jason Day their last sponsor's exemption.
This is a good thing. Let's let John's ribs heal. Let's let John do a little refining of his shape. Let's let John deserve one of these exemptions.
Enough about Daly - I know I am hard on John, I hate talent wasted. So I've decided to become more positive. I am going to root for David Duval. David, like John, made some decisions. I like David's better. I want David back. I want David to win. From here on, no more Daly - only good vibes (how 60's) for David. You go guy. I am behind you.
See you Sunday at Cowboys!
