The Superpowers Of The Older Golfer

If you’re middle-aged or older, it’s time to appreciate what a formidable player you have become

- Richard Russell

It’s the patronising tone that irks me. The ‘didn’t they do well?’ astonishment from the golf world whenever an older player outperforms others. It’s like they only see the age, not the achievement.

“Veteran Stewart Cink defies all logic – and doctor’s orders – to shoot two rounds of 63 and actually win the tournament!”

“Oldie Lee Westwood needs oxygen and a continual supply of Werther’s Originals but somehow wins the European Tour’s Order of Merit in Dubai.”

“The venerable Bernhard Langer rises from his wheelchair, throws aside his crutches, gets special permission to leave his care home and – glory hallelujah! – outscores his Masters playing partner, the mighty Bryson DeChamboom. Praise be, it’s a miracle!”

What’s going on here? Why is everyone so surprised when a golfer not in their 20s or 30s plays great golf? Tom Watson nearly winning The Open at 59? I’m amazed it doesn’t happen more often.

Golf is a game of co-ordination and confidence – not athleticism. It’s not football, or rugby. It doesn’t need great speed, great strength or supreme physical fitness. And there is no earthly reason why a 25-year-old off 15 should be more likely to beat a 50-year-old off the same handicap. In fact, quite the opposite, as we will see.