Happy Father's Day

Reflections on the US Open and my dad

Happy Father’s Day!

First, a short explanation of why I did not have posts about the US Open all week: I work a seasonal online gig that lasted longer than normal. Combining the last editing and proofreading of my next release (The Hindered Honeymooners-Doro Banyon Cozy Historical Mysteries-Book 9) with another job nearly overwhelmed me. Now, the gig is finished for this season and the book is uploaded!

As I mentioned in “Mashie Monday” earlier this month the United States Open has ended on Father’s Day since 1976. It has always been a big event in my family, and I still think of my dad when I watch.

I’ve been fortunate enough to attend a few US Opens—two at Oakland Hills in Detroit, one at Oakmont in Pittsburgh, and one at Inverness Club in Toledo. My most profound memories of the event come from the 1979 US Open at Inverness. If you’ve had never been to an Open, it is one of sports’ most iconic and prestigious events. To have it come to your course when you are the pro is a dream come true—at least it was for my dad.

I could tell dozens of stories about that week and the time leading up to it. To say my family, my dad’s staff, and the members were excited would be an understatement. With the excitement comes anxiety. Will the weather be good? Will crowds turn out? Will everything go as planned? Will the course hold its own?

The last is a huge concern. No one wants their course to be “taken to its knees” by players being way under pair. I’m happy to say that Hale Irwin, the winner, finished at even par. He was a gracious champion, and he sent a lovely letter to my dad saying how much he appreciated his cordiality as the host pro. He also noted how much work goes into the tournament by the host club and the pro. I’ve volunteered for other tournaments, and they all involve a lot of planning and diligence by hundreds of people.

As for the weather, it could not have been better—sunny and mild days with the usual prevailing southwest wind marked the week. Prevailing winds are a factor in golf course design because players should face a variety of crosswinds, headwinds, and tailwinds. But winds can come from other than prevailing directions, and they can die down—which makes any course much easier.

Pictured below is a piece of memorabilia from the 1979 US Open.

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