Ambitious Players vs. Lucky Players

They seem to be from all walks of life.

The comparison roots in the personal stories of Graeme Storm (29, UK) and John Daly (41, USA), who finished first and second, respectively, in the first round of the 89th US PGA Championship, which took place yesterday at Southern Hills Country Club in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Underdogs among the participants, Storm recorded a 5-under 65, and Daly a 3-under 67.

To finance his golf career, Storm worked at a cake factory five years ago on a 148 pounds’ weekly pay. He washed dishes in cold water. To save expenses, his mother volunteered as caddie in a tournament held last spring. He did not catch much attention from the media since his 2000 debut until he first won a championship in the France Open last month.

On the other hand, Daly has drawn attention from the media not due to his performance, but due to his alleged gambling and alcohol addiction. He did not practice on the official course at all until yesterday. He just practiced three hours in a nearby club. He reportedly spent his time in front of slot machines. Still, he played aggressively and recorded four birdies and one bogey while puffing a cigar and drinking soda in the sizzling hot weather. His 1991 championship title qualified him for this tournament. At that time, people were amused at his victory, which came without any practice.

K. J. Choi and Tiger Woods finished the round without impressive performances. Both recorded a one-over 71. The tough course and hot weather allowed only 12 players to score under-par.

kjs0123@donga.com