Let's Talk About Tiger

Donald: When I first heard about Tiger signing on to play in the Masters, I was a bit skeptical. I mean, of course I want to see the man play— every time—but I worried. Still do. As I watched the pre- Masters discussions, I noticed Tiger limping on the eve of the tournament.

Russ: I caught that as well.

Donald: Day one, Tiger seemed okay, but I noticed that he quickly got worse. By day three, it was pretty much a wrap for him. But it was really good to see him out there.

John: And continuing to compete at a decent level. It might seem like a small thing when you consider he only completed four days since being out for 14 months… but, then, when we realize he nearly lost his leg and, even, came really close to losing his life, it’s impressive. However, the one thing that always gets me about those with the means is the lack of sense when it comes to not driving when not able. The reports say there was no alcohol or anything in the post-testing, but we know he has had issues within this department, so it always gets to me. We have ride-share apps or, even, private car—

Patrick: Right. He does have the means to have one oncall, right?

John: Agreed.

Russ: See, I’m in the camp that all of those things in Tiger’s past are just that: in the past. I mean, I’ll give him ups for coming back from the car accident and giving his all, but I won’t beat him down for being in an accident. If he is out and about driving under the influence—I mean, more than we know—then, yes, I can’t support that. However, with all of the racism in this world, those that simply dislike him just because they’re not him, Tiger remains strong. He’s great for golf. I won’t even lie and say I get excited for any golf tournament other than one that includes: “Tiger is playing.”

Patrick: Hilarious, Russ. I must admit, it’s pretty much the same for me. I’ve had many good times watching golf without Tiger—and used to watch it a ton back in the day with my father—on a random Saturday or Sunday, but nothing will do more to my motivation than knowing Tiger’s around.

Donald: I’m there as well, fellas. With this one, though, my excitement was tamed somewhat with my concern about his legs. Seeing Tiger recently play with his son in that tournament, I can feel the life-after-golf importance of Tiger being healthy not just for the sport of it, but for the life of it.

Patrick: Well said, Don.

John: Agreed. And let me add that although I can’t let go of the idea of Tiger causing his own problems, I can acknowledge that his situation is educational in the sense of being a positive lesson: Never give up. Always persevere.

Russ: Will you ever forgive him?

John: Perhaps. At the moment, though, I have mixed feelings because the decisions we make have consequences, and we have to pay for them. And, right now, he’s going through it…but things’re looking up for him.

Russ: A message to Tiger: Young man, keep positive and just do it.

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Vendors Russell Adams

Vendor John Hagan

Vendor Donald Morris

Executive Assistant Patrick Edwards