Tom Watson to join Jack and Gary on Masters 1st tee ?

[grm24]

> @iutodd said:

> > @"Oliver Klozoff" said:

> > Rules: done playing all the 4 majors, not active on the Senior Tour, have 2+ Masters wins, and 5+ total major wins.

> > That's a select group.

> > Watson and Faldo would be next.

> > Tiger and Phil would be after that.

> > Nobody else meets the criteria (yet)

>

> This is the right way to look at it I think. As an addendum either Augusta wants to keep the honorary starter tradition going or they don’t.

>

> ....I can see the argument that nobody but Tiger is on the same level as Jack and Arnie. Player is a friggin Legend but, IMO, Arnie and Jack are on Mt. Rushmore and Gary Player isn’t. (Jack, Arnie, Snead, Tiger)

>

> If Watson gets the invite then so should Faldo and they keep it going until Phil and Tiger are old enough around 2040. Faldo announces the Masters (and I think he’s quite good) which makes his connection to Augusta quite strong. **I don’t really associate Watson with Augusta but he’s on the same level as Gary Player I think...**

>

Watson was very strong in The Masters. Along with his two wins he finished 2nd three times. He placed in the top 10 14 times in his first 17 Masters appearances. He went 1st, T2, T2, 12th, 1st in one stretch.

 

 

[Darth Putter]

> @iutodd said:

> > @"Oliver Klozoff" said:

> > Rules: done playing all the 4 majors, not active on the Senior Tour, have 2+ Masters wins, and 5+ total major wins.

> > That's a select group.

> > Watson and Faldo would be next.

> > Tiger and Phil would be after that.

> > Nobody else meets the criteria (yet)

>

> This is the right way to look at it I think. As an addendum either Augusta wants to keep the honorary starter tradition going or they don’t.

>

> ....I can see the argument that nobody but Tiger is on the same level as Jack and Arnie. Player is a friggin Legend but, IMO, Arnie and Jack are on Mt. Rushmore and Gary Player isn’t. (Jack, Arnie, Snead, Tiger)

>

> If Watson gets the invite then so should Faldo and they keep it going until Phil and Tiger are old enough around 2040. Faldo announces the Masters (and I think he’s quite good) which makes his connection to Augusta quite strong. I don’t really associate Watson with Augusta but he’s on the same level as Gary Player I think...

>

> If anything Watson should be the starter for the Open given that he won it five freaking times and had it in his hands in 2009 (still bummed about that one).

 

In recent years the R&A has sent out a former champion or European great for the first tee shot on Thursday.

 

Darren Clarke this year, Sandy Lyle last year, Mark O'Mera, Colin Montgomerie and Thomas Bjorn the years before that.

 

They just continue on and play at least 36 holes.

[iBanesto]

A European representative would be nice.

 

I wish Seve was still with us.

[Hawkeye77]

> @LICC said:

> > @Hawkeye77 said:

> > > @LICC said:

> > > > @Hawkeye77 said:

> > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Tom Watson, Ben Crenshaw and Jose Maria can handle the duties after Jack and Gary, and until Faldo is ready. Much later, Phil and Tiger if they are able.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Why bother? They would go from legends of the game to pretty good players (Watson is a great but not at the Nicklaus, Palmer, Nelson, Snead, Player level).

> > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > Some might debate that with Watson at 8 majors, and Player of the Year more than a few times.

> > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > I could see Watson at most. The others you mentioned, not really. The Masters hasn't always had ceremonial starters. It has skipped for years at a time when there weren't players that fit the role ready to do it. Since 1980 there has been Gene Sarazen, Byron Nelson, Sam Snead, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player. I don't see Crenshaw or Olazabal or Faldo as being right for it. Maybe Watson, maybe not.

> > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > Curious why not faldo..... Won it 3 times and was the man to beat for best on a decade. Couldn't think of a better choice in the future

> > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > Oh please. To go from Nelson, Snead, Arnie, Jack, and Player to Faldo?

> > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > He's won 6 friggin majors....so oh please, in my eyes he's ahead of Nelson. He's won the masters 3 times so in my eyes worth being a starter in the future

> > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > Faldo is no legend. Won’t happen.

> > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > Are you serious? Come to the UK and say that, he's a sporting icon and one of our greatest ever spietsman .....so very much a legend

> > > > > > >

> > > > > > > In the UK. So let him hit a ceremonial first ball at the Open. He doesn't meet the standard for the Masters.

> > > > > > He's won it 3 times..... I repeat 3 friggin times.... Please explain the standard of the masters when faldo has been a major part of its history. More deserving than most that's without doubt, I suspect if he was American you'll have a different tune

> > > > >

> > > > > The standard is a legend of golf. He is not. Transitioning Watson in would be fine and he can hold the position until Tiger is ready.

> > > >

> > > > Idiotic.

> > > >

> > > > Nick Faldo is a living golf legend, period.

> > >

> > > He is at Ernie Els, Lee Trevino level.

> >

> > Do you just troll along in every thread?

> >

> > Forget about Els for now.

> >

> > Faldo and Trevino each with 6 majors and yes, golf legends.

> >

> > Again, idiotic, but you seem to enjoy it for some reason.

>

> Would you have Trevino and Els be the honorary starters too?

 

Because they won The Masters when?

 

Just more nonsense upon more nonsense.

[LICC]

> @Hawkeye77 said:

> > @LICC said:

> > > @Hawkeye77 said:

> > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > @Hawkeye77 said:

> > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Tom Watson, Ben Crenshaw and Jose Maria can handle the duties after Jack and Gary, and until Faldo is ready. Much later, Phil and Tiger if they are able.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Why bother? They would go from legends of the game to pretty good players (Watson is a great but not at the Nicklaus, Palmer, Nelson, Snead, Player level).

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Some might debate that with Watson at 8 majors, and Player of the Year more than a few times.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > I could see Watson at most. The others you mentioned, not really. The Masters hasn't always had ceremonial starters. It has skipped for years at a time when there weren't players that fit the role ready to do it. Since 1980 there has been Gene Sarazen, Byron Nelson, Sam Snead, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player. I don't see Crenshaw or Olazabal or Faldo as being right for it. Maybe Watson, maybe not.

> > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > Curious why not faldo..... Won it 3 times and was the man to beat for best on a decade. Couldn't think of a better choice in the future

> > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > Oh please. To go from Nelson, Snead, Arnie, Jack, and Player to Faldo?

> > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > He's won 6 friggin majors....so oh please, in my eyes he's ahead of Nelson. He's won the masters 3 times so in my eyes worth being a starter in the future

> > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > Faldo is no legend. Won’t happen.

> > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > Are you serious? Come to the UK and say that, he's a sporting icon and one of our greatest ever spietsman .....so very much a legend

> > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > In the UK. So let him hit a ceremonial first ball at the Open. He doesn't meet the standard for the Masters.

> > > > > > > He's won it 3 times..... I repeat 3 friggin times.... Please explain the standard of the masters when faldo has been a major part of its history. More deserving than most that's without doubt, I suspect if he was American you'll have a different tune

> > > > > >

> > > > > > The standard is a legend of golf. He is not. Transitioning Watson in would be fine and he can hold the position until Tiger is ready.

> > > > >

> > > > > Idiotic.

> > > > >

> > > > > Nick Faldo is a living golf legend, period.

> > > >

> > > > He is at Ernie Els, Lee Trevino level.

> > >

> > > Do you just troll along in every thread?

> > >

> > > Forget about Els for now.

> > >

> > > Faldo and Trevino each with 6 majors and yes, golf legends.

> > >

> > > Again, idiotic, but you seem to enjoy it for some reason.

> >

> > Would you have Trevino and Els be the honorary starters too?

>

> Because they won The Masters when?

>

> Just more nonsense upon more nonsense.

 

You are missing the point. Faldo is around the same level as Trevino, Els, Norman, Singh. The honorary Masters starters for the last 40 years have been at a higher level

[scruffynick]

> @LICC said:

> > @Hawkeye77 said:

> > > @LICC said:

> > > > @Hawkeye77 said:

> > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > @Hawkeye77 said:

> > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Tom Watson, Ben Crenshaw and Jose Maria can handle the duties after Jack and Gary, and until Faldo is ready. Much later, Phil and Tiger if they are able.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Why bother? They would go from legends of the game to pretty good players (Watson is a great but not at the Nicklaus, Palmer, Nelson, Snead, Player level).

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Some might debate that with Watson at 8 majors, and Player of the Year more than a few times.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > I could see Watson at most. The others you mentioned, not really. The Masters hasn't always had ceremonial starters. It has skipped for years at a time when there weren't players that fit the role ready to do it. Since 1980 there has been Gene Sarazen, Byron Nelson, Sam Snead, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player. I don't see Crenshaw or Olazabal or Faldo as being right for it. Maybe Watson, maybe not.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > Curious why not faldo..... Won it 3 times and was the man to beat for best on a decade. Couldn't think of a better choice in the future

> > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > Oh please. To go from Nelson, Snead, Arnie, Jack, and Player to Faldo?

> > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > He's won 6 friggin majors....so oh please, in my eyes he's ahead of Nelson. He's won the masters 3 times so in my eyes worth being a starter in the future

> > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > Faldo is no legend. Won’t happen.

> > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > Are you serious? Come to the UK and say that, he's a sporting icon and one of our greatest ever spietsman .....so very much a legend

> > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > In the UK. So let him hit a ceremonial first ball at the Open. He doesn't meet the standard for the Masters.

> > > > > > > > He's won it 3 times..... I repeat 3 friggin times.... Please explain the standard of the masters when faldo has been a major part of its history. More deserving than most that's without doubt, I suspect if he was American you'll have a different tune

> > > > > > >

> > > > > > > The standard is a legend of golf. He is not. Transitioning Watson in would be fine and he can hold the position until Tiger is ready.

> > > > > >

> > > > > > Idiotic.

> > > > > >

> > > > > > Nick Faldo is a living golf legend, period.

> > > > >

> > > > > He is at Ernie Els, Lee Trevino level.

> > > >

> > > > Do you just troll along in every thread?

> > > >

> > > > Forget about Els for now.

> > > >

> > > > Faldo and Trevino each with 6 majors and yes, golf legends.

> > > >

> > > > Again, idiotic, but you seem to enjoy it for some reason.

> > >

> > > Would you have Trevino and Els be the honorary starters too?

> >

> > Because they won The Masters when?

> >

> > Just more nonsense upon more nonsense.

>

> You are missing the point. Faldo is around the same level as Trevino, Els, Norman, Singh. The honorary Masters starters for the last 40 years have been at a higher level

 

Trevino was way higher than most, one of the greats and if the masters has treated him better he would be a starter now. To say faldo is only on the same level with the names you provided is pure stupidity and quite clearly someone looking for a argument. Faldo is without doubt a legend of the game, and without doubt one of the games finest ever players period....frankly I really don't care what ramblings you have on here now because I really don't care

[NJpatbee]

Watson and Faldo at some point but it is way to soon. I do not get the complaints about Faldo.

[bscinstnct]

TW should hit an iron when it’s his time so he doesn’t kill a “patron” ; )

[Hawkeye77]

> @LICC said:

> > @Hawkeye77 said:

> > > @LICC said:

> > > > @Hawkeye77 said:

> > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > @Hawkeye77 said:

> > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Tom Watson, Ben Crenshaw and Jose Maria can handle the duties after Jack and Gary, and until Faldo is ready. Much later, Phil and Tiger if they are able.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Why bother? They would go from legends of the game to pretty good players (Watson is a great but not at the Nicklaus, Palmer, Nelson, Snead, Player level).

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Some might debate that with Watson at 8 majors, and Player of the Year more than a few times.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > I could see Watson at most. The others you mentioned, not really. The Masters hasn't always had ceremonial starters. It has skipped for years at a time when there weren't players that fit the role ready to do it. Since 1980 there has been Gene Sarazen, Byron Nelson, Sam Snead, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player. I don't see Crenshaw or Olazabal or Faldo as being right for it. Maybe Watson, maybe not.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > Curious why not faldo..... Won it 3 times and was the man to beat for best on a decade. Couldn't think of a better choice in the future

> > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > Oh please. To go from Nelson, Snead, Arnie, Jack, and Player to Faldo?

> > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > He's won 6 friggin majors....so oh please, in my eyes he's ahead of Nelson. He's won the masters 3 times so in my eyes worth being a starter in the future

> > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > Faldo is no legend. Won’t happen.

> > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > Are you serious? Come to the UK and say that, he's a sporting icon and one of our greatest ever spietsman .....so very much a legend

> > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > In the UK. So let him hit a ceremonial first ball at the Open. He doesn't meet the standard for the Masters.

> > > > > > > > He's won it 3 times..... I repeat 3 friggin times.... Please explain the standard of the masters when faldo has been a major part of its history. More deserving than most that's without doubt, I suspect if he was American you'll have a different tune

> > > > > > >

> > > > > > > The standard is a legend of golf. He is not. Transitioning Watson in would be fine and he can hold the position until Tiger is ready.

> > > > > >

> > > > > > Idiotic.

> > > > > >

> > > > > > Nick Faldo is a living golf legend, period.

> > > > >

> > > > > He is at Ernie Els, Lee Trevino level.

> > > >

> > > > Do you just troll along in every thread?

> > > >

> > > > Forget about Els for now.

> > > >

> > > > Faldo and Trevino each with 6 majors and yes, golf legends.

> > > >

> > > > Again, idiotic, but you seem to enjoy it for some reason.

> > >

> > > Would you have Trevino and Els be the honorary starters too?

> >

> > Because they won The Masters when?

> >

> > Just more nonsense upon more nonsense.

>

> You are missing the point. Faldo is around the same level as Trevino, Els, Norman, Singh. The honorary Masters starters for the last 40 years have been at a higher level

 

No, you are the only person continuing to miss it, nothing new there.

 

With the exception of Venturi (basically last minute sub but a nice gesture) every "honorary starter" won at Augusta National. Trevino and Els obviously never have and won't be in that role. Lee still a legend of golf, nonetheless.

 

[LICC]

> @scruffynick said:

> > @LICC said:

> > > @Hawkeye77 said:

> > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > @Hawkeye77 said:

> > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > @Hawkeye77 said:

> > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Tom Watson, Ben Crenshaw and Jose Maria can handle the duties after Jack and Gary, and until Faldo is ready. Much later, Phil and Tiger if they are able.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Why bother? They would go from legends of the game to pretty good players (Watson is a great but not at the Nicklaus, Palmer, Nelson, Snead, Player level).

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Some might debate that with Watson at 8 majors, and Player of the Year more than a few times.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > I could see Watson at most. The others you mentioned, not really. The Masters hasn't always had ceremonial starters. It has skipped for years at a time when there weren't players that fit the role ready to do it. Since 1980 there has been Gene Sarazen, Byron Nelson, Sam Snead, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player. I don't see Crenshaw or Olazabal or Faldo as being right for it. Maybe Watson, maybe not.

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Curious why not faldo..... Won it 3 times and was the man to beat for best on a decade. Couldn't think of a better choice in the future

> > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > Oh please. To go from Nelson, Snead, Arnie, Jack, and Player to Faldo?

> > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > He's won 6 friggin majors....so oh please, in my eyes he's ahead of Nelson. He's won the masters 3 times so in my eyes worth being a starter in the future

> > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > Faldo is no legend. Won’t happen.

> > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > Are you serious? Come to the UK and say that, he's a sporting icon and one of our greatest ever spietsman .....so very much a legend

> > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > In the UK. So let him hit a ceremonial first ball at the Open. He doesn't meet the standard for the Masters.

> > > > > > > > > He's won it 3 times..... I repeat 3 friggin times.... Please explain the standard of the masters when faldo has been a major part of its history. More deserving than most that's without doubt, I suspect if he was American you'll have a different tune

> > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > The standard is a legend of golf. He is not. Transitioning Watson in would be fine and he can hold the position until Tiger is ready.

> > > > > > >

> > > > > > > Idiotic.

> > > > > > >

> > > > > > > Nick Faldo is a living golf legend, period.

> > > > > >

> > > > > > He is at Ernie Els, Lee Trevino level.

> > > > >

> > > > > Do you just troll along in every thread?

> > > > >

> > > > > Forget about Els for now.

> > > > >

> > > > > Faldo and Trevino each with 6 majors and yes, golf legends.

> > > > >

> > > > > Again, idiotic, but you seem to enjoy it for some reason.

> > > >

> > > > Would you have Trevino and Els be the honorary starters too?

> > >

> > > Because they won The Masters when?

> > >

> > > Just more nonsense upon more nonsense.

> >

> > You are missing the point. Faldo is around the same level as Trevino, Els, Norman, Singh. The honorary Masters starters for the last 40 years have been at a higher level

>

> Trevino was way higher than most, one of the greats and if the masters has treated him better he would be a starter now. To say faldo is only on the same level with the names you provided is pure stupidity and quite clearly someone looking for a argument. Faldo is without doubt a legend of the game, and without doubt one of the games finest ever players period....frankly I really don't care what ramblings you have on here now because I really don't care

 

You are an Englander so you are overrating Faldo. Understandable, even if not accurate.

[tiderider]

> @LICC said:

> > @gvogel said:

> > Tom Watson, Ben Crenshaw and Jose Maria can handle the duties after Jack and Gary, and until Faldo is ready. Much later, Phil and Tiger if they are able.

>

> Why bother? They would go from legends of the game to pretty good players (Watson is a great but not at the Nicklaus, Palmer, Nelson, Snead, Player level).

 

watson is a legit top 12 golfer of all time, and is a damn sight better than a "pretty good player" ... that is one obtuse statement ...

[tiderider]

> @LICC said:

> > @scruffynick said:

> > > @LICC said:

> > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > Tom Watson, Ben Crenshaw and Jose Maria can handle the duties after Jack and Gary, and until Faldo is ready. Much later, Phil and Tiger if they are able.

> > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > Why bother? They would go from legends of the game to pretty good players (Watson is a great but not at the Nicklaus, Palmer, Nelson, Snead, Player level).

> > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > Some might debate that with Watson at 8 majors, and Player of the Year more than a few times.

> > > > > > >

> > > > > > > I could see Watson at most. The others you mentioned, not really. The Masters hasn't always had ceremonial starters. It has skipped for years at a time when there weren't players that fit the role ready to do it. Since 1980 there has been Gene Sarazen, Byron Nelson, Sam Snead, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player. I don't see Crenshaw or Olazabal or Faldo as being right for it. Maybe Watson, maybe not.

> > > > > >

> > > > > > Curious why not faldo..... Won it 3 times and was the man to beat for best on a decade. Couldn't think of a better choice in the future

> > > > >

> > > > > Oh please. To go from Nelson, Snead, Arnie, Jack, and Player to Faldo?

> > > > >

> > > > >

> > > > >

> > > >

> > > > He's won 6 friggin majors....so oh please, in my eyes he's ahead of Nelson. He's won the masters 3 times so in my eyes worth being a starter in the future

> > >

> > > Faldo is no legend. Won’t happen.

> >

> > Are you serious? Come to the UK and say that, he's a sporting icon and one of our greatest ever spietsman .....so very much a legend

>

> In the UK. So let him hit a ceremonial first ball at the Open. He doesn't meet the standard for the Masters.

 

ah ... a troll ... i see ...

 

carry on ...

[LICC]

> @tiderider said:

> > @LICC said:

> > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > > Tom Watson, Ben Crenshaw and Jose Maria can handle the duties after Jack and Gary, and until Faldo is ready. Much later, Phil and Tiger if they are able.

> > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > Why bother? They would go from legends of the game to pretty good players (Watson is a great but not at the Nicklaus, Palmer, Nelson, Snead, Player level).

> > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > Some might debate that with Watson at 8 majors, and Player of the Year more than a few times.

> > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > I could see Watson at most. The others you mentioned, not really. The Masters hasn't always had ceremonial starters. It has skipped for years at a time when there weren't players that fit the role ready to do it. Since 1980 there has been Gene Sarazen, Byron Nelson, Sam Snead, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player. I don't see Crenshaw or Olazabal or Faldo as being right for it. Maybe Watson, maybe not.

> > > > > > >

> > > > > > > Curious why not faldo..... Won it 3 times and was the man to beat for best on a decade. Couldn't think of a better choice in the future

> > > > > >

> > > > > > Oh please. To go from Nelson, Snead, Arnie, Jack, and Player to Faldo?

> > > > > >

> > > > > >

> > > > > >

> > > > >

> > > > > He's won 6 friggin majors....so oh please, in my eyes he's ahead of Nelson. He's won the masters 3 times so in my eyes worth being a starter in the future

> > > >

> > > > Faldo is no legend. Won’t happen.

> > >

> > > Are you serious? Come to the UK and say that, he's a sporting icon and one of our greatest ever spietsman .....so very much a legend

> >

> > In the UK. So let him hit a ceremonial first ball at the Open. He doesn't meet the standard for the Masters.

>

> ah ... a troll ... i see ...

>

> carry on ...

 

I see the pattern here. Someone says something contrary to your opinion and you say. “troll”. Sure.

 

Carry on ...

[tiderider]

> @LICC said:

> > @tiderider said:

> > > @LICC said:

> > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > Tom Watson, Ben Crenshaw and Jose Maria can handle the duties after Jack and Gary, and until Faldo is ready. Much later, Phil and Tiger if they are able.

> > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > Why bother? They would go from legends of the game to pretty good players (Watson is a great but not at the Nicklaus, Palmer, Nelson, Snead, Player level).

> > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > Some might debate that with Watson at 8 majors, and Player of the Year more than a few times.

> > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > I could see Watson at most. The others you mentioned, not really. The Masters hasn't always had ceremonial starters. It has skipped for years at a time when there weren't players that fit the role ready to do it. Since 1980 there has been Gene Sarazen, Byron Nelson, Sam Snead, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player. I don't see Crenshaw or Olazabal or Faldo as being right for it. Maybe Watson, maybe not.

> > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > Curious why not faldo..... Won it 3 times and was the man to beat for best on a decade. Couldn't think of a better choice in the future

> > > > > > >

> > > > > > > Oh please. To go from Nelson, Snead, Arnie, Jack, and Player to Faldo?

> > > > > > >

> > > > > > >

> > > > > > >

> > > > > >

> > > > > > He's won 6 friggin majors....so oh please, in my eyes he's ahead of Nelson. He's won the masters 3 times so in my eyes worth being a starter in the future

> > > > >

> > > > > Faldo is no legend. Won’t happen.

> > > >

> > > > Are you serious? Come to the UK and say that, he's a sporting icon and one of our greatest ever spietsman .....so very much a legend

> > >

> > > In the UK. So let him hit a ceremonial first ball at the Open. He doesn't meet the standard for the Masters.

> >

> > ah ... a troll ... i see ...

> >

> > carry on ...

>

> I see the pattern here. Someone says something contrary to your opinion and you say. “troll”. Sure.

>

> Carry on ...

 

> @LICC said:

> > @tiderider said:

> > > @LICC said:

> > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > Tom Watson, Ben Crenshaw and Jose Maria can handle the duties after Jack and Gary, and until Faldo is ready. Much later, Phil and Tiger if they are able.

> > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > Why bother? They would go from legends of the game to pretty good players (Watson is a great but not at the Nicklaus, Palmer, Nelson, Snead, Player level).

> > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > Some might debate that with Watson at 8 majors, and Player of the Year more than a few times.

> > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > I could see Watson at most. The others you mentioned, not really. The Masters hasn't always had ceremonial starters. It has skipped for years at a time when there weren't players that fit the role ready to do it. Since 1980 there has been Gene Sarazen, Byron Nelson, Sam Snead, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player. I don't see Crenshaw or Olazabal or Faldo as being right for it. Maybe Watson, maybe not.

> > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > Curious why not faldo..... Won it 3 times and was the man to beat for best on a decade. Couldn't think of a better choice in the future

> > > > > > >

> > > > > > > Oh please. To go from Nelson, Snead, Arnie, Jack, and Player to Faldo?

> > > > > > >

> > > > > > >

> > > > > > >

> > > > > >

> > > > > > He's won 6 friggin majors....so oh please, in my eyes he's ahead of Nelson. He's won the masters 3 times so in my eyes worth being a starter in the future

> > > > >

> > > > > Faldo is no legend. Won’t happen.

> > > >

> > > > Are you serious? Come to the UK and say that, he's a sporting icon and one of our greatest ever spietsman .....so very much a legend

> > >

> > > In the UK. So let him hit a ceremonial first ball at the Open. He doesn't meet the standard for the Masters.

> >

> > ah ... a troll ... i see ...

> >

> > carry on ...

>

> I see the pattern here. Someone says something contrary to your opinion and you say. “troll”. Sure.

>

> Carry on ...

 

lol ... faldo won 3 times at augusta and is every bit a legend there ... he is absolutely a legend of the game, as much as anyone else ... to say otherwise is ludicrous ...

 

carry on ...

[deadsolid...shank]

Watson is absolutely deserving. Along with his record being good enough, he’s one of the only players to go head to head with one of the two GOAT candidates down the stretch of a major and come out on top. Almost winning the one a few years ago is a bonus. How anyone can question his position in the golf history hiarchy is beyond me. And I don’t even like him.

 

After him, Faldo certainly deserves the next spot (if they continue he tradition). Crenshaw just doesn’t meet the needed level for me.

[LICC]

> @tiderider said:

> > @LICC said:

> > > @tiderider said:

> > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > Tom Watson, Ben Crenshaw and Jose Maria can handle the duties after Jack and Gary, and until Faldo is ready. Much later, Phil and Tiger if they are able.

> > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > Why bother? They would go from legends of the game to pretty good players (Watson is a great but not at the Nicklaus, Palmer, Nelson, Snead, Player level).

> > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > Some might debate that with Watson at 8 majors, and Player of the Year more than a few times.

> > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > I could see Watson at most. The others you mentioned, not really. The Masters hasn't always had ceremonial starters. It has skipped for years at a time when there weren't players that fit the role ready to do it. Since 1980 there has been Gene Sarazen, Byron Nelson, Sam Snead, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player. I don't see Crenshaw or Olazabal or Faldo as being right for it. Maybe Watson, maybe not.

> > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > Curious why not faldo..... Won it 3 times and was the man to beat for best on a decade. Couldn't think of a better choice in the future

> > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > Oh please. To go from Nelson, Snead, Arnie, Jack, and Player to Faldo?

> > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > >

> > > > > > >

> > > > > > > He's won 6 friggin majors....so oh please, in my eyes he's ahead of Nelson. He's won the masters 3 times so in my eyes worth being a starter in the future

> > > > > >

> > > > > > Faldo is no legend. Won’t happen.

> > > > >

> > > > > Are you serious? Come to the UK and say that, he's a sporting icon and one of our greatest ever spietsman .....so very much a legend

> > > >

> > > > In the UK. So let him hit a ceremonial first ball at the Open. He doesn't meet the standard for the Masters.

> > >

> > > ah ... a troll ... i see ...

> > >

> > > carry on ...

> >

> > I see the pattern here. Someone says something contrary to your opinion and you say. “troll”. Sure.

> >

> > Carry on ...

>

> > @LICC said:

> > > @tiderider said:

> > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > Tom Watson, Ben Crenshaw and Jose Maria can handle the duties after Jack and Gary, and until Faldo is ready. Much later, Phil and Tiger if they are able.

> > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > Why bother? They would go from legends of the game to pretty good players (Watson is a great but not at the Nicklaus, Palmer, Nelson, Snead, Player level).

> > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > Some might debate that with Watson at 8 majors, and Player of the Year more than a few times.

> > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > I could see Watson at most. The others you mentioned, not really. The Masters hasn't always had ceremonial starters. It has skipped for years at a time when there weren't players that fit the role ready to do it. Since 1980 there has been Gene Sarazen, Byron Nelson, Sam Snead, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player. I don't see Crenshaw or Olazabal or Faldo as being right for it. Maybe Watson, maybe not.

> > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > Curious why not faldo..... Won it 3 times and was the man to beat for best on a decade. Couldn't think of a better choice in the future

> > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > Oh please. To go from Nelson, Snead, Arnie, Jack, and Player to Faldo?

> > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > >

> > > > > > >

> > > > > > > He's won 6 friggin majors....so oh please, in my eyes he's ahead of Nelson. He's won the masters 3 times so in my eyes worth being a starter in the future

> > > > > >

> > > > > > Faldo is no legend. Won’t happen.

> > > > >

> > > > > Are you serious? Come to the UK and say that, he's a sporting icon and one of our greatest ever spietsman .....so very much a legend

> > > >

> > > > In the UK. So let him hit a ceremonial first ball at the Open. He doesn't meet the standard for the Masters.

> > >

> > > ah ... a troll ... i see ...

> > >

> > > carry on ...

> >

> > I see the pattern here. Someone says something contrary to your opinion and you say. “troll”. Sure.

> >

> > Carry on ...

>

> lol ... faldo won 3 times at augusta and is every bit a legend there ... he is absolutely a legend of the game, as much as anyone else ... to say otherwise is ludicrous ...

>

> carry on ...

 

You think Faldo is as much a legend of the game as Jack Nicklaus?

[BobMorris]

> @"deadsolid...shank" said:

> Watson is absolutely deserving. Along with his record being good enough, he’s one of the only players to go head to head with one of the two GOAT candidates down the stretch of a major and come out on top. Almost winning the one a few years ago is a bonus. How anyone can question his position in the golf history hiarchy is beyond me. And I don’t even like him.

>

> After him, Faldo certainly deserves the next spot (if they continue he tradition). Crenshaw just doesn’t meet the needed level for me.

 

Taking into consideration that Jock Hutchison & Fred McLeod were the only ceremonial starters until 1981, and neither ever even won the Masters, then I'd say Crenshaw is more than qualified. lol

[grm24]

> @tiderider said:

> > @LICC said:

> > > @gvogel said:

> > > Tom Watson, Ben Crenshaw and Jose Maria can handle the duties after Jack and Gary, and until Faldo is ready. Much later, Phil and Tiger if they are able.

> >

> > Why bother? They would go from legends of the game to pretty good players (Watson is a great but not at the Nicklaus, Palmer, Nelson, Snead, Player level).

>

> watson is a legit top 12 golfer of all time, and is a **** sight better than a "pretty good player" ... that is one obtuse statement ...

 

Many people really have no idea how great of a player Watson was with what he accomplished in the late 70's and early 80's. He was a beast.

 

1977-1984:

33 PGA Tour wins including 7 majors.

PGA Tour leading money winner 5 times.

PGA Tour Player Of The Year 6 times.

Vardon Trophy Winner (Lowest Scoring Average) 3 times.

 

To put Watson's numbers in a different context. Some people want to put Phil Mickelson in the top 10 players of all time and not Watson. Debatable. As great as Phil is/was Phil never won any of those awards or dominated golf as Watson did.

[BobMorris]

> @Hawkeye77 said:

 

> With the exception of Venturi (basically last minute sub but a nice gesture) every "honorary starter" won at Augusta National.

>

Uhhh...no.

 

[PowderedToastMan]

> @LICC said:

> > @tiderider said:

> > > @LICC said:

> > > > @tiderider said:

> > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > Tom Watson, Ben Crenshaw and Jose Maria can handle the duties after Jack and Gary, and until Faldo is ready. Much later, Phil and Tiger if they are able.

> > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > Why bother? They would go from legends of the game to pretty good players (Watson is a great but not at the Nicklaus, Palmer, Nelson, Snead, Player level).

> > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > Some might debate that with Watson at 8 majors, and Player of the Year more than a few times.

> > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > I could see Watson at most. The others you mentioned, not really. The Masters hasn't always had ceremonial starters. It has skipped for years at a time when there weren't players that fit the role ready to do it. Since 1980 there has been Gene Sarazen, Byron Nelson, Sam Snead, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player. I don't see Crenshaw or Olazabal or Faldo as being right for it. Maybe Watson, maybe not.

> > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > Curious why not faldo..... Won it 3 times and was the man to beat for best on a decade. Couldn't think of a better choice in the future

> > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > Oh please. To go from Nelson, Snead, Arnie, Jack, and Player to Faldo?

> > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > He's won 6 friggin majors....so oh please, in my eyes he's ahead of Nelson. He's won the masters 3 times so in my eyes worth being a starter in the future

> > > > > > >

> > > > > > > Faldo is no legend. Won’t happen.

> > > > > >

> > > > > > Are you serious? Come to the UK and say that, he's a sporting icon and one of our greatest ever spietsman .....so very much a legend

> > > > >

> > > > > In the UK. So let him hit a ceremonial first ball at the Open. He doesn't meet the standard for the Masters.

> > > >

> > > > ah ... a troll ... i see ...

> > > >

> > > > carry on ...

> > >

> > > I see the pattern here. Someone says something contrary to your opinion and you say. “troll”. Sure.

> > >

> > > Carry on ...

> >

> > > @LICC said:

> > > > @tiderider said:

> > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > @scruffynick said:

> > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > @LICC said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > > > > > > > > > > > Tom Watson, Ben Crenshaw and Jose Maria can handle the duties after Jack and Gary, and until Faldo is ready. Much later, Phil and Tiger if they are able.

> > > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > > Why bother? They would go from legends of the game to pretty good players (Watson is a great but not at the Nicklaus, Palmer, Nelson, Snead, Player level).

> > > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > > Some might debate that with Watson at 8 majors, and Player of the Year more than a few times.

> > > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > > I could see Watson at most. The others you mentioned, not really. The Masters hasn't always had ceremonial starters. It has skipped for years at a time when there weren't players that fit the role ready to do it. Since 1980 there has been Gene Sarazen, Byron Nelson, Sam Snead, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player. I don't see Crenshaw or Olazabal or Faldo as being right for it. Maybe Watson, maybe not.

> > > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > > Curious why not faldo..... Won it 3 times and was the man to beat for best on a decade. Couldn't think of a better choice in the future

> > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > > Oh please. To go from Nelson, Snead, Arnie, Jack, and Player to Faldo?

> > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > >

> > > > > > > > He's won 6 friggin majors....so oh please, in my eyes he's ahead of Nelson. He's won the masters 3 times so in my eyes worth being a starter in the future

> > > > > > >

> > > > > > > Faldo is no legend. Won’t happen.

> > > > > >

> > > > > > Are you serious? Come to the UK and say that, he's a sporting icon and one of our greatest ever spietsman .....so very much a legend

> > > > >

> > > > > In the UK. So let him hit a ceremonial first ball at the Open. He doesn't meet the standard for the Masters.

> > > >

> > > > ah ... a troll ... i see ...

> > > >

> > > > carry on ...

> > >

> > > I see the pattern here. Someone says something contrary to your opinion and you say. “troll”. Sure.

> > >

> > > Carry on ...

> >

> > lol ... faldo won 3 times at augusta and is every bit a legend there ... he is absolutely a legend of the game, as much as anyone else ... to say otherwise is ludicrous ...

> >

> > carry on ...

>

> You think Faldo is as much a legend of the game as Jack Nicklaus?

 

Three golfers since 1934 have won more green jackets than Faldo- Arnie, Tiger and Jack. How in the world can you argue that Nick isn’t a worthy candidate to hit the ceremonial tee shot?

[Hawkeye77]

> @BobMorris said:

> > @Hawkeye77 said:

>

> > With the exception of Venturi (basically last minute sub but a nice gesture) every "honorary starter" won at Augusta National.

> >

> Uhhh...no.

>

 

Uhhh - yes.

[Hawkeye77]

> @Hawkeye77 said:

> > @BobMorris said:

> > > @Hawkeye77 said:

> >

> > > With the exception of Venturi (basically last minute sub but a nice gesture) every "honorary starter" won at Augusta National.

> > >

> > Uhhh...no.

> >

>

> Uhhh - yes.

 

The Masters isn't the only tournament to have been contested at Augusta National.

 

[LICC]

> @grm24 said:

> > @tiderider said:

> > > @LICC said:

> > > > @gvogel said:

> > > > Tom Watson, Ben Crenshaw and Jose Maria can handle the duties after Jack and Gary, and until Faldo is ready. Much later, Phil and Tiger if they are able.

> > >

> > > Why bother? They would go from legends of the game to pretty good players (Watson is a great but not at the Nicklaus, Palmer, Nelson, Snead, Player level).

> >

> > watson is a legit top 12 golfer of all time, and is a **** sight better than a "pretty good player" ... that is one obtuse statement ...

>

> Many people really have no idea how great of a player Watson was with what he accomplished in the late 70's and early 80's. He was a beast.

>

> 1977-1984:

> 33 PGA Tour wins including 7 majors.

> PGA Tour leading money winner 5 times.

> PGA Tour Player Of The Year 6 times.

> Vardon Trophy Winner (Lowest Scoring Average) 3 times.

>

> To put Watson's numbers in a different context. Some people want to put Phil Mickelson in the top 10 players of all time and not Watson. Debatable. As great as Phil is/was Phil never won any of those awards or dominated golf as Watson did.

 

Who ever said Watson was only a “pretty good player”?

[deadsolid...shank]

> @BobMorris said:

> > @"deadsolid...shank" said:

> > Watson is absolutely deserving. Along with his record being good enough, he’s one of the only players to go head to head with one of the two GOAT candidates down the stretch of a major and come out on top. Almost winning the one a few years ago is a bonus. How anyone can question his position in the golf history hiarchy is beyond me. And I don’t even like him.

> >

> > After him, Faldo certainly deserves the next spot (if they continue he tradition). Crenshaw just doesn’t meet the needed level for me.

>

> Taking into consideration that Jock Hutchison & Fred McLeod were the only ceremonial starters until 1981, and neither ever even won the Masters, then I'd say Crenshaw is more than qualified. lol

 

Criteria changes over almost 40 yeats

 

[LICC]

> @"deadsolid...shank" said:

> > @BobMorris said:

> > > @"deadsolid...shank" said:

> > > Watson is absolutely deserving. Along with his record being good enough, he’s one of the only players to go head to head with one of the two GOAT candidates down the stretch of a major and come out on top. Almost winning the one a few years ago is a bonus. How anyone can question his position in the golf history hiarchy is beyond me. And I don’t even like him.

> > >

> > > After him, Faldo certainly deserves the next spot (if they continue he tradition). Crenshaw just doesn’t meet the needed level for me.

> >

> > Taking into consideration that Jock Hutchison & Fred McLeod were the only ceremonial starters until 1981, and neither ever even won the Masters, then I'd say Crenshaw is more than qualified. lol

>

> Criteria changes over almost 40 yeats

>

 

Seriously. What the tournament did when it was 15 years old isn’t relevant to its practice for the last 40 years.

[deadsolid...shank]

> @LICC said:

> > @"deadsolid...shank" said:

> > > @BobMorris said:

> > > > @"deadsolid...shank" said:

> > > > Watson is absolutely deserving. Along with his record being good enough, he’s one of the only players to go head to head with one of the two GOAT candidates down the stretch of a major and come out on top. Almost winning the one a few years ago is a bonus. How anyone can question his position in the golf history hiarchy is beyond me. And I don’t even like him.

> > > >

> > > > After him, Faldo certainly deserves the next spot (if they continue he tradition). Crenshaw just doesn’t meet the needed level for me.

> > >

> > > Taking into consideration that Jock Hutchison & Fred McLeod were the only ceremonial starters until 1981, and neither ever even won the Masters, then I'd say Crenshaw is more than qualified. lol

> >

> > Criteria changes over almost 40 yeats

> >

>

> Seriously. What the tournament did when it was 15 years old isn’t relevant to its practice for the last 40 years.

 

I really don’t know what you’re saying here, or which side of this you’re on. My point is because 40 years ago the starters weren’t past champions doesn’t mean it has to stay that way. The “position” requirements for almost anything evolve over time. It’s become a position “staffed” by the games elite. It’s simply my opinion that Crenshaw doesn’t fit that description. Others feel he does.

 

[LICC]

> @"deadsolid...shank" said:

> > @LICC said:

> > > @"deadsolid...shank" said:

> > > > @BobMorris said:

> > > > > @"deadsolid...shank" said:

> > > > > Watson is absolutely deserving. Along with his record being good enough, he’s one of the only players to go head to head with one of the two GOAT candidates down the stretch of a major and come out on top. Almost winning the one a few years ago is a bonus. How anyone can question his position in the golf history hiarchy is beyond me. And I don’t even like him.

> > > > >

> > > > > After him, Faldo certainly deserves the next spot (if they continue he tradition). Crenshaw just doesn’t meet the needed level for me.

> > > >

> > > > Taking into consideration that Jock Hutchison & Fred McLeod were the only ceremonial starters until 1981, and neither ever even won the Masters, then I'd say Crenshaw is more than qualified. lol

> > >

> > > Criteria changes over almost 40 yeats

> > >

> >

> > Seriously. What the tournament did when it was 15 years old isn’t relevant to its practice for the last 40 years.

>

> I really don’t know what you’re saying here, or which side of this you’re on. My point is because 40 years ago the starters weren’t past champions doesn’t mean it has to stay that way. The “position” requirements for almost anything evolve over time. It’s become a position “staffed” by the games elite. It’s simply my opinion that Crenshaw doesn’t fit that description. Others feel he does.

>

 

I agree with you. I’m saying what the tournament did when it was still fairly new isn’t so important as what it has been doing for the last 40 years

[BobMorris]

> @"deadsolid...shank" said:

> > @BobMorris said:

> > > @"deadsolid...shank" said:

> > > Watson is absolutely deserving. Along with his record being good enough, he’s one of the only players to go head to head with one of the two GOAT candidates down the stretch of a major and come out on top. Almost winning the one a few years ago is a bonus. How anyone can question his position in the golf history hiarchy is beyond me. And I don’t even like him.

> > >

> > > After him, Faldo certainly deserves the next spot (if they continue he tradition). Crenshaw just doesn’t meet the needed level for me.

> >

> > Taking into consideration that Jock Hutchison & Fred McLeod were the only ceremonial starters until 1981, and neither ever even won the Masters, then I'd say Crenshaw is more than qualified. lol

>

> Criteria changes over almost 40 yeats

>

 

Since it's very likely no one on this board knows what the "criteria" actually is, then it's simply mere speculation. As for where I land, I really don't care one way or another.

[BobMorris]

> @Hawkeye77 said:

> > @BobMorris said:

> > > @Hawkeye77 said:

> >

> > > With the exception of Venturi (basically last minute sub but a nice gesture) every "honorary starter" won at Augusta National.

> > >

> > Uhhh...no.

> >

>

> Uhhh - yes.

 

Hutchison and McLeod weren't Honorary Starters? That's news. Anyway, just correcting your comment. Those two never won Masters titles, and between them, they were Honorary Starters to the Masters tournament between 1963 and 1978.

[dalehead]

Based on record Faldo makes it for sure. But I don't think the opposition to him has anything to do with his record or whether or not he is a "legend". I think it's based on something else which is harder to put one's finger on, but I'll try. When we watched the ceremony with the players who have filled the roll of honorary starters we weren't reminded only of their playing careers. In the case of Jock Hutchinson and Fred McLeod they were a link to the Scottish professional heritage and the early days of golf in America. With Gene Sarazen, Byron Nelson, and Sam Snead we were reminded of the players who were the foundation of the professional tour and responsible for brining the major tournaments into the consciousness of the sporting public. Arnie, Jack, and Gary were the "Big 3" of the 50's and 60's, bringing the game to TV and bringing in even more fans. In the process they elevated the 4 majors to premiere sporting event status with more than just golf fans. These men set a pretty high standard for any future replacements and there is just something about Nick Faldo that leads many folks here to conclude he falls short. He many be named at some point and I think he'll be accepted into the role. But not embraced. One of the sad things about Seve's early passing is he will never get to fulfill the role. Not only was he a great champion, he was responsible for bringing European professional golf to the world stage. There just aren't candidates at that level. Not for the time being.