2010 Australian Masters: Odds and ends
Here are a few fun moments from last week’s Australian Masters you may have missed.
Warnie and Woodsy
Tournament organisers scripted a beautiful exchange between Shane Warne and Tiger Woods at the pre-tournament dinner that allowed the large elephant in the room to walk freely for the rest of the Masters. The video of the exchange is below in case you missed it.
Tiger fist pump
The hype was much less than last year but don’t let it fool you. The galleries around Tiger were huge all weekend despite very little to bring much excitement. Finally after 66 holes, (with many fans wearing the same shirt) Tiger went wild and rolled in two eagles and two birdies to move to 7-under and a remarkable fourth place.
The galleries also went wild and got a Tiger fist pump on the final hole. The sound of galleries going crazy across a golf course when Tiger rolls in an eagle is a sweet sound to the ears of a golf fan.
Robert Allenby nails a spectator on the head
There were a few anxious moments on Friday after Robert Allenby nailed a spectator on the head with his drive. He got a signed ball for his trouble and I hope he is recovering well. It was a nasty incident and a good reminder to all of the hazards of being a golf fan.
The Allenby enigma
Robert Allenby can seem like an angry man at times on course but his work off the course is in complete contrast. The work he does for kids with cancer is extraordinary and he was no less giving with his time on the weekend signing plenty of autographs and chatting to anyone who was willing. The photo on the right was taken after the final round with the media surrounding Tiger’s final interview in the background. Nice work Bob.
Sergio had his shoes stolen
It was claimed to be one of the best tournament fields ever assembled in Australia with Sergio Garcia and Camilo Villegas added to the mix. But with many Aussies missing including Adam Scott, Marc Leishman, Mat Goggin and Rod Pampling it was wishful thinking.
Villegas was intense but extremely likable and Garcia was the happiest bloke on course even after his shoes were stolen. He charmed everyone and added his support to the rumours of the PGA Tour coming to Australia.
Appleby’s call of nature
Stuart Appleby was keeping warm on the practice range expecting a playoff when news came through of his victory. He thought it was a good moment to take a leak but found himself running to the presentation after hearing his name called to don the gold jacket.
