IT MUST BE SOMETHING they’re spraying on golf courses, because 59s, a once-rare score (for 18 holes), are spreading like kudzu. And their even-rarer cousins—the 58 and 57—are also popping up from Asia to Alabama. What gives?
I thought I would take inventory of the 59s before they start appearing every week at some pro or amateur event. It’s getting ridiculous, and I’m not sure that anyone can care much longer. There were only three in 33 years on the PGA Tour. Now there have been two in a month. (Sorry, 59, but you’re just not that special anymore. You were much more exciting when you were so elusive. I’m afraid it’s nearly over.)
(Photo: David Duval and Davis Love / Camflan, Flickr)
The Original 59
Al Geiberger, Danny Thomas Memphis Classic, 1977
Al Geiberger was the first, and for years was called Mr. 59. Al shot it with ancient wooden and steel clubs in 102-degree heat. He went on to win the tournament, too. After losing the lead to Gary Player, he shot 32 on his final nine to win by three. Al’s 59 rates high in my book.
The “Easy” 59
Chip Beck, Las Vegas Invitational, 1991
Some have said Chip Beck’s 59 was tainted because it was on a new course in perfect condition and therefore “easy.” (Easy or not—and I’d say not—Beck got a million-dollar bonus.) What I remember is that Chip finished off his 59 on the 9th hole because he started on 10. That’s not his fault, but it doesn’t win “cool” points with me. Another thing I remember from seeing a clip is that there was no one there. That’s sort of like making a hole-in-one when you’re playing by yourself.
The Fist-Pump 59
David Duval, Bob Hope Chrysler Classic, 1999
I like Geiberger’s because his was the first, but David Duval’s 59 is the Rembrandt among the bunch as far as I’m concerned. Duval came from seven back to win the tournament. And he eagled the final hole. Eagle. Can you imagine telling people that for the rest of your life? “Yeah, I needed to eagle the last for 59. Got it.” Another thing: Who knew Duval had a fist pump in him? The guy looked like he went to fist-pump school. Apparently he was saving it for something really special. Mr. Shades was jacked up when that putt dropped. I also remember David bringing out the fist pump at the Ryder Cup. And I believe he once fist-pumped at a Waffle House after polishing off a double order of hash browns, but I’m less certain about that.
The Unlucky 59
Paul Goydos, John Deere Classic, 2010
Paul Goydos shot the first 59 in 11 years, a sparkling 13-under effort, including birdies on the last three holes. And then a month later Stuart Appleby rolls in his 59 on top of Goydos’. That’s why I call it the unlucky 59. It’s like rolling out your vintage 1953 Corvette at auction and 10 minutes later there’s another one.
The James Bond 59
Stuart Appleby, Greenbrier Classic, 2010
I saw the last several holes of Stuart Appleby’s 59 at the Greenbrier and I can tell you this: he seemed totally unimpressed. Appleby was James Bond. Cool and collected in his purple Cutter & Buck polo, Stuart flagged his approach shots and rolled in birdie putts like it was 2008 and he still had his tour card. He cut out Jeff Overton’s heart, won the tournament and barely cracked a smile. When Appleby strolled off the 18th green, it was like he was saying, “Applaud if you must. I’m not sure which was harder, shooting a 59 or lacing up my golf shoes.” The name’s Bond, James Bond. Agent 59.
Here’s what I’ve noticed: four of the five 59s have been shot at “Classics.” The next “Classic” on the PGA Tour schedule is in October, the Viking Classic in Mississippi. Just remember you heard it here.
−The Armchair Golfer
59 comes from a long way ever since golf is there.
I wonder what would be the next 59 be called and who will execute it?
I agree with you that Duval's "59" was most impressive for both timing and the closing eagle. Still, for me, the best was Annika's effort. For whatever reason I tuned into the Golf Channel or ESPN2 that afternoon and watched her play the last 6 or 7 holes. While the PGA is posting "59's" all over the place, she still remains the only "Ms. 59".
Good call on Annika's 59. I remember a little bit about it, but not a lot. I'd like to see clips of it again.
My vote is for Ms. 59, Annika Sorenstam. The first and only woman to break the magic number.
Duval gets it from me too. An eagle to win carries it. DD is also cool so he gets the James Bond vote too.
My Top 3 59s (did you ever think we would have enough to pick and choose?):
1) Duval — The first 59 shot in the final round to win the tournament. (Just shooting 59 doesn't mean you win, after all; ask Goydos.) The eagle finish is a nice touch, but it's just gloss on the apple.
2) Appleby — Also shot 59 in the final round to win the tournament, plus get his tour card back. Gets second place because he wasn't the first to do it. As for the cool aspect, Stu was just tired. Eleven tournaments in a row — ouch!
3) Sorenstam — Only woman to shoot 59. Gets third place for one simple reason — it was shot during the 2nd round, not the final round, so the pressure was a little different. (Any 59 was still a novelty then.) Had it been during the final round, it might have edged out Duval because of its uniqueness.
However, if I rank them according to significance, I'd have to say:
1) Geiberger — First ever.
2) Sorenstam — First woman ever.
3) Duval — First final round to win tournament.
But we've got 58s and 57s now. Who's up for a 56 Watch?