Cliff Hamm
Age:53
Location: Jamestown, RI
Occupation: Psychologist, about to retire
Handicap: 15 or so
Clubs: Golfsmith components ( I suspect I'm the only one)
Play numerous public courses around New England
My interest in golf begain as a caddy in New Jersey at Baltusrol. It was a wonderful learning experience and gave me an early apprectiation and love for the game and it's traditions. Getting to play the Upper every Monday was wonderful as on other days it was off to the local muni.
Two experiences, both on the same day, while caddying at Baltusrol have always stuck with me. One was caddying for Bob Creasy, head of the PGA of America, in 1967 the weekend before the Open. As we were on the 10th tee Jack Nicklaus and Dean Beman asked to join up. As a 16 year old what a thrill to be a caddy in a group with Nicklaus and Beman for a couple of holes. BTW I remember talking with Nicklauus' caddy (before pros could bring their own) after the open and his mentioning how Jack never hit the ball past the pin to keep his putts up hill. Don't really know if that's true or not but interesting.
After caddying went out to watch some of the pros practice which was great as the public wasn't allowed on the course. On the 8th hole Ben Hogan's (this was his last open) caddy asked me to get Mr. Hogan a soda. Ran over to the half way house and handed Mr. Hogan his soda. Never a thank you or an offer to pay for it. Oh well it makes a good story from years ago and is none the less a fond memory in its own way.
Before coming across this board never realized how many folks were interested in golf architecture and am truly impressed with your knowledge.
Cliff