Today I saw someone wearing what I will ever think of as a “Payne Stewart cap.” My mind wandered in thoughts of one of my favorite players of all time. Today, it is often difficult to distinguish different PGA Tour players at a distance. All dress alike, and all have similar swings. There are a few who stand out, like Jim Furyk and his hacker’s swing, Vijay Singh’s lanky stride, Freddy Couples’ nonchalant demeanor, and John Daly’s “physique.”
Payne had a smooth swing, and in regular clothing resembled many other golfers. But he tried on plus-fours once on a whim in celebration of golf’s history, and decided that was his look. And it was. He built a clothing line, and even had a contract with the NFL to wear team logos. Other pro golfers tried wearing the same clothing and found it comfortable, but didn’t want to infringe on Payne’s persona.
Stweart was a party animal. He gave new meaning to that phrase. He enjoyed life and people. At his funeral, his wife addressed this nature by commenting that Payne was now in Heaven, where they could now “Let the party begin!” Yes, Payne was an unapologetic Christian, and found his faith after years of being a wild man. But he saw no conflict in being Christian and having a good time.
He was the ultimate team cheerleader in Ryder Cup play. If he were still here and didn’t make the team, this Ryder Cup might have seen him named co-captain to help Hal Sutton. What a pair that would be. Sutton, the determined team man, and Stewart, the rah-rah guy. I would have loved to see that.
Payne’s son, by all accounts, is pretty much his clone. As Stewart said, “The acorn doesn’t fall very far from the tree.” I wonder if he will be as good a golfer. He should be in his first year or two of high school right now. Dad won nine PGA Tour titles, including the PGA Championship and two US Opens. He also played on five Ryder Cup teams. Young Stewart has big wingtips to fill.
I miss Payne Stewart.
