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Following the conclusion of the prestigious PGA Championship, the Memorial Tournament at Muirfield Village Golf Club has become the center of interest for the golfing community. Jack Nicklaus, one of the all-time greats in golf, founded this competition in 1976. He aimed to create a competition that captured the spirit of golf’s tradition and history. In addition, he also wanted to give back to society by supporting causes that helped the underprivileged in Columbus and Ohio, through this tournament.
Now that the tournament is finally here, it brought back memories for one golfer regarding his encounter with Jack Nicklaus.
A 29-year-old golfer talks about his first Memorial Tournament
Michael S. Kim is currently competing in the $20,000,000 worth Memorial tournament. He just posted a throwback on Twitter about his first Memorial Tournament experience. He described how he had traveled to the course the day before for practice, and met the ‘Golden Bear’, Jack Nicklaus, and his son, Jackie.
2014, my first time playing Memorial, I get there the Sunday before. I hit some balls and head to the 1st tee for a practice round. Jack Nicklaus and his son Jackie are there and I get to say hello before they tee off. I was going to play behind them but the head pro comes up to…
— Michael S. Kim (@Mike_kim714) May 31, 2023
There, he had the chance to play alongside the legendary Nicklaus. Because the golf legend didn’t want to put Kim under any strain or interfere with his plans, so Nicklaus didn’t personally invite Kim. Kim, though, seized the opportunity and played 18 holes with Nicklaus and his son, Jackie. Then Kim described how Nicklaus discussed particular holes and even provided Kim with tips on how to execute particular strokes.
He talked about his design philosophies for specific holes and gave me some tips to playing certain shots and holes. Talked about some of his masters wins, especially about the 86 Masters and was able to hear about Jackie’s perspective as he caddied for him there. Asked me if…
— Michael S. Kim (@Mike_kim714) May 31, 2023
Nicklaus also discussed his own experiences playing in competitions, particularly the 1986 Masters. His son Jackie also provided his perspective because he caddied for his father during that tournament. Finally, Nicklaus asked Kim if he had ever attended the Masters. When Kim said no, Nicklaus reassured him that he would one day take part in the prestigious tournament. And that was an experience worth reminiscing for life!
“Talked about some of his masters wins, especially about the 86 Masters and was able to hear about Jackie’s perspective as he caddied for him there. Asked me if I’ve ever been to the Masters and I said no and he replied with, don’t worry you’ll play it one day.”
In that tournament, Kim scored 73 in the first round and 72 in the second round, but ended up missing the cut.
Fans reaction to Michael S. Kim’s story
Kim’s story resonated with the fans as they went on to remark how fortunate Kim was to get guidance from Nicklaus himself, and how Nicklaus saw something special in him.
Once in a lifetime experience right there. The inside knowledge from the designer and one of best ever is invaluable. It’s a brutal course. And if he says you’ll be at the Masters, then he sees something special in you.
— Joe R (@Joe3point0) June 1, 2023
I hope you got the Jack details of each hole. Invaluable information
— anthony (@jas1564) May 31, 2023
One fan commented on how he took the interview with Jack Nicklaus, and Nicklaus was so supportive of this.
Jack is a true gentleman. I interviewed him in 2000 just before he played in the PGA Championship at Pebble Beach with Tiger. Evidently, he liked that I wasn't too pushy & respectful. He gave me an exclusive 20 minute interview & answered every question in great detail. Awesome.
— Todd Lewys (@ToddLewys) May 31, 2023
Many fans praised Michael S. Kim’s experience, saying it was fantastic.
I'd just love to meet the man, you actually got to play a round with him. 😍
— LogicalVol (@opieflatt) May 31, 2023
Wow. Lucky you!!
— nancy enright (@enrightherb) May 31, 2023
That s my top bucket list wish
— Matt (@MattDawgs31) June 1, 2023
What an incredible experience!
— Kevin Nestvogel (@knestvogel) May 31, 2023
Great story! Living the dream!
— Chris Huston (@IamChrisHuston) May 31, 2023
Kim has even received praise from some fans for sharing small aspects of the tour.
Happy to follow you. Love the insightful, well spoken info on golf and Tour life in your tweets.
— hh459 (@hopefulhorn) May 31, 2023
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Great story Michael. Love to hear your insights from the tournaments you play.
— Newyalka (@newyalka) May 31, 2023
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We’re excited to see what kind of magic Kim will bring to the game. What do you think about Kim’s tweet? Let us know your take in the comments below
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