Tiger Woods

Monday, August 7, 2006

Yesterday I watched Tiger Woods win his 50th tournament as a professional golfer. To say that this was an astonishing feat would be an understatement. I would not say that Tiger woods is necessarily a hero...I reserve that title for actions that demonstrate a certain selflessness and sacrifice in the face of adversity or danger. Nor would I say, necessarily, that Tiger Woods is a role model. He may or may not be, but forcing athletes to be role models is unrealistic. His work with youth might qualify him for role model status but to say that, merely because Tiger represents a minority, that he must set an example for others.

I CAN, however, marvel at the fact that Tiger Woods consistently demonstrates humilty melded with confidence, a rare combination of assets. He has also combined raw natural talent with hard work and detailed and constant training which has skyrocketed him to premier status in his chosen sport. He may become the most accomplished golfer ever to play the game..his accomplishments to date have broken every record previously set.

Is he good for the game of golf? That's a no brainer. If someone like me who has rarely played the game can be drawn in by the Tiger magnet, just think what effect he has had on golf's popularity and the influx of new devotees to the sport...young and old. And, even though I was hesitant to accord Tiger the "role model" status, that he has opened the door for other minorities to be interested in a game that used to be the sole province of affluent, white men, is undeniable.

So...on this day after Tiger's 50th win...years earlier than anyone else ever before...I salute his prolific accomplishment and look forward to the day when I watch him win his 100th match!!

trickster108