There's a favorite PGA Tour player so how about Champions Tour.
My favorite has to be Arnold Palmer. I got to follow him at the Champions Tour event here in Houston (Administaff Small Business Classic). It was Friday, so I was right there next to him, and was even in the background of an interview. It's hard to believe he shot 78 at age 76. I obviously never got to seem him in his prime but he's an incredibly likeable person that I respect.
Also Lee Trevino is fun to watch because it never really seems he ever gets set before he hits a shot. He's still walking when he takes the club back!
Tom Watson will always be a favorite. He's just great to watch.
I would have to throw in Vicente Fernandez, too ... only because I had an opportunity to play with him in a pro-am at the initial Allianz Championships a few years ago. He was a true gentleman and offered help and advice to anyone in the group. That was a different kind of golf. Vicente and his caddie ... along with 4 players plus their caddies and an official. Imagine that every time you stand over a ball there are 20 eyes on you! And, or course, 2 of those eyes knew a little something about the game. It was a very cool experience and Allianz treated everyone very well.
I admire the guys who didn't do much on the regular tour but have found new life on the Champions Tour. Thorpe, Quigley, Doyle, unique swings and know how to get it done.
I like alot of the players, Hatalsky, Quigley, Watson, Irwin, to name a few. The golf is so competetive and fun to watch. Plus, they seem to care and like each other..
I like alot of the players, Hatalsky, Quigley, Watson, Irwin, to name a few. The golf is so competetive and fun to watch. Plus, they seem to care and like each other..
Dana Quigley. Like his style and his humility. Plays agressively and you can tell he loves it. His short backswing and the power he creates is really cool. His attitude would be beneficial to the Ryder Cup team. He is probably playing some courses every day right now, his endurance for playing is legendary. I also admire his free admission of his personal struggle with alcohol and how with a second chance he feels so rewarded and happy. He talks of his appreciation for the support of his fans on a regular basis. Reason for me to tune in every week.
I used to be a huge fan of the Champions/Senior Tour until Bruce Fleisher dominated for a couple of years and then Hale Irwin took over. I have nothing against these guys and I know they are fine players (great in Irwin's case) but they drained all the life out of that tour for me.
George Archer (RIP) ... I loved his tall smooth swing, his putter and his easy calm.
Ray Floyd ... that wacky swing still does something cool to my psyche!
Jim Thorpe ... his strong mental attitude he brings to the game.
I can't believe I left Tom Watson out. I love watching him on TV, but didn't get to see him in person. Also left out Tom Kite. The pairing that I followed most of the day was great. Arnold Palmer, Tom Kite, and Lanny Wadkins.
I also like Gary McCord, but listening to him rather than playing. Saw him get wheeled off in a golf cart but I don't know why. And Dana Quigley is a large guy.