Steve Marino, a seasoned PGA Tour player, has not yet secured a victory, but he has achieved five runner-up finishes and peaked at 54th in the world rankings in 2011. Currently recovering from hernia surgery, Marino recently shared memorable moments from his career on the Tour during an episode of the Subpar podcast.
In this podcast, Marino recalled playing against a young Daniel Berger and shared amusing stories about his experiences with Ernie Els. One of the highlights of Marino’s career came in 2009 when he played alongside the legendary Tom Watson during the Open Championship at Turnberry.
Reminiscing about the experience, Marino marvelled at Watson’s exceptional play, particularly in challenging weather conditions. He vividly described how Watson effortlessly navigated crosswinds, hitting the ball straight down the middle of the fairway despite the wind’s force and direction. Marino was struck by Watson’s unwavering composure and pinpoint accuracy, especially in the face of strong swirling winds.
Watson’s performance during the tournament was enthralling, and the crowd’s resounding support for him was undeniable. Marino fondly recollected the electric atmosphere and described the overwhelming pro-Watson sentiment that reverberated throughout the entire weekend. The thrill of the deafening cheers from the crowd as Watson sunk a 40-foot birdie putt remains etched in Marino’s memory.
Despite Marino’s T38 finish at the event, his admiration and respect for Watson’s exceptional display of skill and resilience remained unwavering. He acknowledged the challenges he faced on the course and expressed awe at witnessing Watson’s outstanding play, particularly at his age.
For more captivating anecdotes from Marino, including entertaining caddie stories, please refer to the complete episode. Reflecting on his distinguished career, Marino’s insights provide a unique perspective on the world of professional golf.
As part of Columbia’s pioneering class of female varsity golfers, Jessica possesses an exceptional skill set both on and off the golf course. In addition to showcasing her prowess on the green, she plays a pivotal role in producing engaging print and online features for the publication and overseeing significant projects such as GOLF’s inaugural Style Issue.
In summary, Marino’s reflections offer a compelling glimpse into the extraordinary experience of playing alongside a golfing legend during one of the sport’s most prestigious tournaments. His gratitude for this opportunity and profound respect for Watson’s enduring impact on the game of golf serve as a testament to the enduring allure of the sport and the profound influence of its iconic figures.