‘At My Pace’: Greg Norman Once Had a Harsh Reply to An Ernest Request From His Former Caddie

Greg Norman has held a pretty good record on the field during his prime years in professional golf. Before turning into a full-fledged businessman, Norman used to hit wonderful shots on the field. But his love for speed was always the same. The golf legend has had a history of keeping things fast – be it growing his businesses, hitting shots, or in this case, walking!

Greg Norman and his speedwalk at the 1986 Open Championship

Norman, known for his sharp brains and unbreakable spirits, is always involved in controversies. The former golfer finds his way to the headlines every other day for his statements about his rival tour. However, his career involves a huge part of playing on the PGA Tour itself. This brings us to an unforgettable moment from the 1986 Open Championship.

Having a good caddie on the field is as important as anything else that affects the performance of a player. And for Norman, that role was remarkably played by Pete Bender. Other than holding the bag of their golfer, caddies also keep motivating the player to get out of pressurizing situations whenever required. And that’s what Bender was the best at.

Norman always had a knack to win tournaments. His participation was never intended just for the sake of being present, which resulted in him always giving his 100% on the field. But despite all his convictions, Norman faced something he was not prepared for at the tournament.

Leading by three strokes through six holes in the final round, Norman was ready to create history. But despite showing amazing skills for the past three days, the golfer made a quick swing and the ball went into a deep hollow of rough. Worried about losing his chance to win the major championship, Norman got extremely nervous.

“Greg had started walking faster and talking faster, and that drive was a warning light,” Bender revealed. “It was like I felt this click, and I knew I had to do something. I got up beside him as we left the tee and said, ‘Greg, do me a favor: Let’s slow down a little and enjoy it.’ “

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That’s when Norman stopped and looked at his caddie. “Easy. Just walk at my pace. I’m here to help.”‘ Bender comforted him. However, Norman continued to walk at the same pace after barely acknowledging his caddie’s words. But Bender didn’t give up and pulled the back of the shark’s sweater to stop him, making sure Norman listened to him this time.

Norman even asked for Bender’s advice about where to hit the ball and how hard. But he soon gained control with the 4-iron to five feet at the eighth. In the end, Norman hit the ball four feet past the hole but somehow scored par on the next attempt. And that was how Norman won his first Major championship!

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