During the 2003, U.S. Open, most eyes were not trained on defending champion Tiger Woods or on Phil Mickelson or Ernie Els. These top golfers and others, even Jim Furyk, who would go on to win the title, all took a backseat to the 53-year-old past champion and his caddy. For most of thirty years, Bruce Edwards has caddied for Tom Watson. In their final U.S. Open together they made history.
Of course Bruce Edwards is no ordinary caddy. In 1973, forgoing college, he took a chance on the pro golf tour. He soon hooked up with a young Tom Watson and has not looked back since. Watson would go on to win 39-PGA Tour events, including 8 major titles - one U.S. Open, two Masters, and five British Opens. Year after year, the indelible image to those who followed Watson was the great golfer striding the fairways matched step for step by his friend, caddy, and companion--Bruce Edwards.
As 2002 gave way to 2003, Edwards was engaged to be married and looking forward to another competitive year as Watson's caddy. But he and Watson had become concerned when he couldn't grip a golf ball on a cold October morning and more worried when he began to slur his speech. After a lifetime of avoiding doctors, Edwards finally had to take notice. Tests at the Mayo Clinic in January revealed that Edwards had ALS - Lou Gehrig's disease. His doctors estimated that he had one to three years to live.
The love, dismay, and admiration that poured forth once word spread about Edward's illness were nearly overwhelming. Even as the disease enroached on his physical capabilities, Edwards kept a sense of humor and continued to do the job he had dedicated his life to. Now Watson, other friends, and family are by his side as this much-admired man faces his greatest challenge with the same courage and determination that have made him one of the most esteemed figures in professional golf. Abridged. Read by the authr. 3.5 hours. 3 CDs.
