The CSGA Links Volume 2 Issue 3 May, 2014 | Page 44

Play by the Rules! 4 A True Sportsman In light of the 78th Masters Tournament being played just a few weeks ago, it only seems fitting that we showcase one of golf’s true heroes. Amateur golfer Bobby Jones was undoubtedly one of the best golfers of all time, his record speaks for itself: four United States Open titles, three British Open titles, five U.S. Amateur titles and one British Amateur title. He is, in fact, the only player ever to have won the Grand Slam (all four major championships) in the same calendar year (1930). However, he might have had a fifth U.S. Open title if he hadn’t been so honest. In the first round of the 1925 U.S. Open at Worcester Country Club, Jones’ approach shot to the 11th hole’s elevated green fell short into the deep rough of the embankment. As he took his stance to pitch onto the green, the head of his club brushed the grass and caused a slight movement of the ball. Jones immediately informed his fellow competitor Walter Hagen and the USGA official covering their group of the error, and after officials were unable to confirm that the ball had actually moved, they allowed Jones to make his own ruling on whether or not he should be penalized. Jones said he was certain the ball had moved and penalized himself; the decision cost him the outright title, as he would go on to lose the tournament in a playoff to Willie Macfarlane. Spectators praised Jones for