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by Peter February 25, 2020

written by Peter February 25, 2020

Gene Sarazen’s Miraculous “Shot Heard ‘Round the World” at the 1935 Masters Tournament

The Jinx of Craig Wood

Craig Wood, a talented golfer known as the “Blond Bomber,” seemed to be haunted by bad luck. In 1933, he lost the British Open in a playoff after his drive found the Swilcan Burn. A year later, he finished second in the PGA Championship, again losing in a playoff. In 1935, he arrived at the second Augusta National Invitational Tournament as a favorite, but destiny had a cruel twist in store.

The Rise of Gene Sarazen

Gene Sarazen, a crafty veteran with six major tournament victories, was considered a serious contender for the 1935 Masters. He was known for his signature plus-fours attire and his superstitious nature. On the eve of the tournament, he received a lucky ring from a friend, which he believed would bring him good fortune.

The Fateful 15th Hole

On the final round of the tournament, Wood held a three-stroke lead over Sarazen with only four holes remaining. As Sarazen approached the 15th tee, he knew he needed a miracle to catch up. He asked his caddie what he needed to win, and the response was daunting: “Four threes.”

The “Shot Heard ‘Round the World”

Undeterred, Sarazen pulled out his lucky ring and rubbed it on his caddie’s head for luck. He then unleashed a powerful shot with his four-wood, aiming for the pin on the 485-yard hole. The ball landed on the front of the green and began to roll, slowly but surely, towards the cup. To the astonishment of the crowd, it disappeared into the hole for a double eagle two.

The Aftermath

Sarazen’s miraculous shot tied him with Wood for the lead, forcing a 36-hole playoff on Monday. Despite Wood’s valiant efforts, Sarazen’s steady play and two more birdies on the last three holes gave him a five-stroke victory.

The End of Wood’s Jinx

Wood never expressed bitterness about his defeat, acknowledging that Sarazen’s shot was simply too extraordinary. However, the “jinx” label continued to follow him, as he eventually became the first golfer to lose all four major championships in extra holes. Ironically, he broke the jinx by winning the 1941 Masters Tournament and the U.S. Open in the same year, proving that even the most cursed golfers can overcome adversity.

The Legacy of Sarazen’s Shot

Sarazen’s double eagle remains one of the most iconic moments in golf history, forever etched in the annals of the Masters Tournament. In 1955, the Augusta National Golf Club built the Sarazen Bridge at the edge of the pond in front of the 15th hole to honor the Squire and his legendary shot.

The Importance of Superstition and Mental Fortitude in Golf

Sarazen’s lucky ring and his unwavering belief in his abilities highlight the role of superstition and mental fortitude in golf. The game often tests a player’s resilience and ability to overcome adversity. Whether it’s a lucky charm or a visualization technique, many golfers find solace and confidence in these rituals.

Peter

Peter is a marketer with a background in business and a passion for writing. With a keen eye for detail and a talent for crafting compelling narratives, Peter has carved out a niche for himself as a versatile contributor to LifeScienceArt.com, where he enjoys sharing his insights and expertise across a wide array of topics. Peter's journey into the world of marketing began with his university education in business. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. His academic pursuits were characterized by a deep understanding of market dynamics, consumer behavior, and strategic planning. This foundation laid the groundwork for his successful career in marketing, where he has applied his knowledge to help businesses grow and thrive in competitive landscapes. Throughout his career, Peter has worked with a diverse range of companies, from startups to large multinational conglomerates, helping them develop and execute effective marketing strategies. His experience spans various industries, including technology, healthcare, and consumer goods, reflecting his adaptability and broad skill set. Peter's ability to blend analytical thinking with creative problem-solving has made him a valuable asset in any organization he works with. Despite his busy professional life, Peter has always made time for his true passion: writing. He finds joy in the written word and believes in its power to inform, inspire, and connect people. This passion has found a perfect outlet in LifeScienceArt.com, where he contributes to all sections of the site. Whether it's penning thought-provoking articles on the latest trends in life sciences, crafting engaging profiles of industry leaders, or writing insightful pieces on art and its intersection with science, Peter brings a unique voice and perspective to his work. One of the aspects Peter cherishes most about his role at LifeScienceArt.com is the opportunity to collaborate with a wonderful cohort of writers. He values the camaraderie and the shared commitment to excellence that characterize the team. Working alongside talented and passionate individuals inspires him to continually hone his craft and push the boundaries of his writing. Outside of his professional pursuits, Peter is an avid reader and a lifelong learner. He enjoys exploring new ideas, delving into diverse genres of literature, and staying abreast of developments in science and art. His curiosity and enthusiasm for learning are reflected in his writing, where he strives to bring fresh insights and a nuanced understanding to his readers. Peter's story is one of dedication, versatility, and a deep-seated love for both marketing and writing. His contributions to LifeScienceArt.com not only enrich the site's content but also underscore the importance of passion and collaboration in creating meaningful and impactful work.