Being a proud Canuck, I was watching today’s Canada-US Olympic hockey final (Yessss …. way to go Sydney Crosby, who grew up about 10 miles from where I’m sitting right now). If that game had not been on, it would have been a golf TV free afternoon for me. That’s rare. But, this was the Phoenix Open (excuse me, Waste Management Phoenix Open … can that title …. cue the groans from the audience at a horrible pun).

I have a real hate on for the 16th hole at that tournament. Thousands of beery frat boy wannabes who are looking for their 15 minutes of TV fame is the antithesis of what golf is. Thank God it only occurs once a season (except when the US Open is anywhere near New York).

OK, I did watch Ricky Fowler play the last couple of holes. I was pulling for him. But, excuse me, what was he thinking with that lay-up? Maybe there was something going on that I wasn’t aware of. But, when you have your chance, when the two guys you’re playing with are farther back than you go for it and get the green, and you still lay-up. Hmmm. All a part of learning I guess.

Still, I love to watch this kid play. I love his golfing cahones. Winning is near for him. And, when that win comes, it will be at a real golf course, with real golf fans. Good too  for Hunter Mahan, another young dude with a great game who looks ready to take the next step. Splendid play coming down the stretch.

Watching the coverage, I did a few fist pumps. I did not, however, swill beer, do the wave, shout out “you da man” or “get in the hole” at decibel 10, and generally act like an ass. I would have been out of place in Phoenix.

I'm glad to have this tournament in the season’s rear view mirror.