58 — Blog — JKD GOLF

Picture this; you're a touring golf professional. You've won 17 times on the PGA Tour, including a major championship. You've represented the USA in nine Ryder Cups (and counting), and amassed almost 67 million dollars in earnings.

Take it a step further; it's Saturday night at a less than intriguing stops on the PGA Tour, the Traveler's Championship in Cromwel, CT. It's one of thousands events you've teed it up in throughout your life, and you're currently tied for 70th. Wahoo. Who wouldn't bag it, with a resume like this? You finish last and still make a check, although peanuts relatively speaking to your biggest paydays. More tempting; you're about to take a week off from the grind. There isn't much to play for. Let's just get this round over with and get home, right?

Wrong. The greatest competitors in the world are ALWAYS competing. And this is why everyone who loves sports (and particularly golf) should admire the heck out of Jim Furyk. He's not categorized as a long palyer and his swing isn't one you'd want your worst enemy to copy. But he grinds, and he knows deep into his core the next swing could turn his luck around. Furyk keeps working hard until he feels ready to compete at his best in each moment.

Jim Furyk broke the PGA Tour scoring record, by shooting 58 in the final round of the 2016 Traveler's Championship! This incredible scoring record on the biggest stage in men's professional golf has been set by a 45 year old, skinny, bald man with an ugly swing.

Furyk's mindset on Saturday evening as he hits practice balls in frustration: "Let's find some momentum.....I didn't want to mail it in at somewhere around par or over par. I wanted to work on some things, even though I have a week off (this week)".

You can listen to the full interview in the press room after Furyk's record breaking 58 HERE.

Opportunities come to those who do their best no matter what the scenario may be. They do their best because they know it's going to set them up for success, whether it's later that day, one week from the current moment, or 10 years down the road. They are ALWAYS ready when their name is called because the best competitors prepare for each opportunity like it may be their last. There is always a sense of urgency, whether it's the Ryder Cup, the US Open, a chipping contest against your best buddy, or the city championship. Competitors are prepared because they know that moment in the sun can present itself at any time. And, those less than momentous occasions (like being T70th at the Travelers Championship) are embraced by the best competitors. If you do your best, there is always something to be gained. And, that experience is what best prepares great competitors for the rare occasions golfers get to shine.

Furyk went out on early Sunday morning and embraced his moment. He made the most of being T70th by making ten birdies and an eagle on the dew swept greens. He gained confidence and marked himself in the record books of the PGA Tour.

Do your best. Records may shatter, or not. But at least you'll be prepared for your moment in the sun, whenever and wherever that may be.