Muirfield musings: Wednesday
We media types live a pampered life during Muirfield week (media room brownies--delish!). Guess what, so do the players!
But these golfers… let’s just say they’re not the friendliest lot. Just like any other sport, some guys are gracious and friendly and helpful. Others could not be more surly and insufferable. A golfer’s life seems like a dream, but it is a grind. All the travel, media and fan requests, pressure from sponsors to perform--it all adds up.
Wednesday’s Pro-am was a good example… we talked with dozens of players who were glad to stop by for a brief chat… Jim Furyk, Aaron Baddeley, Ben Curtis--just a sample of the guys who stopped in a hurry. Ernie Els has declined all media interviews this week, instead speaking to fans via his website. Some guys out here just want to be left alone…
But here’s a weird story… Omar went out to shoot a story on Patriots linebacker and former Buckeye Mike Vrabel. Why? He was caddying for Billy Andrade during practice. Cool story, right? Well, Andrade was more than happy to talk about his new “caddie” and joke with reporters. Vrabel however wouldn’t even stop to listen to Omar’s request for an interview, let alone actually do it. Vrabel’s a member at Muirfield and does some great work in the community. I guess I was disappointed to hear an athlete wouldn’t loosen up for a brief moment of levity.
I give the fans credit out here---they work hard for their autographs. Guys aren’t likely to sign until after they’ve finished their round. That means the crowd around the clubhouse at 18 grows massive when a popular player ends his day.
One other thought… Lefty looks good! He’s slimmed down a bit this year, always dresses nice, and he’s even rocking a bit of a long-hair look. A tan California guy with a gorgeous wife and family who’s more than $50 million on tour! Guess he’s doing ok!
More musings after Thursday’s 1st round..
JROD
