[Scott Coan]

Congrats to Michael Campbell, New Zealand's second major champion!  

Michael grew up playing on Titahi Bay's 9-hole course, a  goat track of a colf course about 10 miles south of Paraparaumu Beach.  I know his father Tom, and everybody else at the Titahi Bay Golf Club are going ballistic about now.

He has always had it in his mind to duplicate Sir Bob Charles feat way back in 1963, so much so that I think he always put way to much pressure on himself to succeed.  In many ways his dramatic debut 10 years ago at the British Open gave him the false impression that he would always be there.

An incredibly streaky player, Michael was not even planning on playing this US Open until he got on one of incredible rolls starting about a month ago.  He qualified by one stroke at the England qualifier and is now the only one standing after 72 holes at Pinehurst.  

All of New Zealand were glued to their TV's today and can't wait to get a glimpse of that US Open trophy.  He will be welcomed like the conquering hero that he is.

Here's hoping that he will continue his good form on the US Tour.  He has always wanted to give it a go and a couple of years ago after a 2nd place showing at Bay Hill he gave it a crack.  He failed miserably and got to the point of resigning himself to playing on the European Tour, where he seems much more comfortable.  There is a closeness to the players on the Euro Tour that he finds much more refreshing.    

This win will take a huge load off his shoulders as he has always felt the weight of NZ's (and his own) expectations.  Chances are very good that his run of good form will continue.

Look out St. Andrews!  

[Scott Coan]

http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3319678a6160,00.html

Cabinet delayed as ministers watch golf

The Government delayed its Cabinet meeting today to watch Michael Campbell win the US Open golf championship.


Prime Minister Helen Clark said the win, the first major golfing event win by a New Zealander since Bob Charles won the British Open in 1963, was stunning.

"His win is a triumph of immense skill, determination and perseverance, along with great modesty and humility," Miss Clark said.

"It is one of New Zealand's greatest sporting achievements, and his place as one of New Zealand sporting greats is cemented."

Miss Clark said New Zealanders had watched Campbell's career since his emergence as an amateur in the Eisenhower Cup winning team.

"We have watched his highs, and we have watched him in more troubled times. Nobody deserves such an immense victory more than Michael," Miss Clark said.

"All New Zealand will join with me in sending our congratulations to Michael, and to his family. He has done his family, his community in Titahi Bay, Wellington, and New Zealand proud."

Cabinet commenced after ministers watched Campbell accept the trophy.

Sport and Recreation Minister Trevor Mallard said the win was a world first for New Zealand and a milestone.

In 1995 Campbell came close to winning the British Open finishing third equal.

"It's great to see Michael hung in there, and returned to form after being plagued by injury following that success," Mr Mallard said.

"It is a testament to not only his skills as a golfer but also to his dedication and commitment that sees him reaching a pinnacle of his sport today."

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