Re: Raincoats

Hi Kim,

Yes, I do understand the point about it being boring, although the "sheer
dominance" I spoke of having a fondness for is never really boring and is in no
way related to international geopolitics -- it's much more local and much more
personal. But that's another discussion.

In this case, I admire the young man's drive for perfection, without the need
for money to motivate him, without anything but the desire to be the best
that ever has been. There is a simplicity and purity in the love (perhaps the
obsession) that makes me smile.

And if he manages to win one or two majors for the next dozen years, for me
that would be anything but boring. It would breathtaking. It would be a joy
to watch.

That being said, of course it is the unlikely that produces the most
passionate moments -- Nicklaus sinking the putt on 17 at Augusta in '86 to make his
final major win his most stirring, for instance.

But watching Tiger now, I can't help get the feeling that this is the sort of
thing old people tell their grandchildren about seeing. And I'm seeing it.
And I will bore my great-nieces and nephews with the stories.

Your last scenario is a bit of a problem. I don't think the comparisons are
really possible (or very meaningful) because of the technology changes, the
differences in courses, and even the difference in conditioning. I think
there's no question that no one else ever had the pure raw talent of Jones or the
quiet discipline of Hogan or the steely concentration of Nicklaus, but I think
this young man has something else and something that we will remember for just
as long a time.

But yes, I too would like to see serious challenges emerge -- if only to make
the power and the dominance, when it comes, an even greater accomplishment.
And it will happen. There are several young men, in their late teens now,
that will push Mr. Woods in ways he has not yet experienced. I have seen them
play in college tournaments and as amateurs and things are going to be very
interesting when the new generation of golfers arrives on the professional scene.

Now I'm off to buy a Father's Day gift and eat mall food.

--John (still living the dream)

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Received on Fri Jun 13 19:48:47 2003