Legendary golfer returns to site of his 1968 Western Open win

By Bob Verdi

GLENVIEW, IL — Try topping this: You have 50 of the world’s best golfers on a storied course playing for huge stakes before massive crowds. Is it possible to make it better?

It is if Jack Nicklaus, arguably the greatest golfer in history, joins the event. Which is exactly what occurred when The Golden Bear held a fireside chat during the BMW Championship Gardner Heidrick Pro-Am Pairings Party at Olympia Fields Country Club in Olympia Fields, Illinois.

Nicklaus celebrated the 55th anniversary of his victory in the 1968 Western Open – now the BMW Championship - at Olympia Fields. He was accompanied by wife Barbara, a star in her own right, and they were appropriately treated as royalty.

Before Jack took the stage, he and Barbara relaxed in the club’s player lounge. As competing golfers entered the room to cool down from practice sessions, they noticed these special guests and paid homage. First, Scottie Scheffler and Sam Burns detoured to greet the sport’s first family, addressing them as “Mr. and Mrs. Nicklaus.” Then Patrick Rodgers, a favorite of the Golden Bear.

“I’ve been touting you for a long time,” said Jack. “I just hope you don’t mind being touted.”

Rogers removed his hat, thanked the icon for the support, then humbly mentioned that he won a tournament even Nicklaus somehow failed to win - the Western Junior in 2010.

“Nope,” said Jack, smiling. “Never won that one.”

Nicklaus is famed for possessing a photographic memory. He won a record 18 majors during his career among 73 PGA TOUR triumphs and is known for being able to recall hundreds of specifics, including club selections on pivotal holes, crucial moments and vanquished foes.

When asked about 1968 at Olympia Fields, Nicklaus volunteered that he remembered “zero” about his conquest. There was a brief period of silence among the people at his table. Then Jack spoke up. “I beat Miller Barber by three strokes,” he said.

Indeed, Nicklaus carded a final round 71 on the renowned North Course for an 11-under aggregate of 273 for prize money of $26,000. Barber closed with 66.

“That was my first victory (of two) that year, an off year for me,” Nicklaus continued. “It was in August, and I thought I might go all of 1968 without one. I played three real good major championships, but other guys just played better.”

Jack regaled a gathering with memories and anecdotes about his matchless career. The session was moderated by Steve Sands, a popular personality with the Golf Channel.

“It’s a special time when you can share an evening with Jack Nicklaus,” said Sands. “What’s so remarkable is that you learn, in addition to being not only a great player, he is a great person who has been a tremendous ambassador for the sport. Jack was not only a great winner, but a great loser. By that I mean, he was always, always, gracious in defeat. And what he and Barbara have contributed to community and charitable causes is off the charts.”

Nicklaus was among a select group of legends whose sportsmanship set a standard for generations of players. He beams at what he sees now. First prize is well beyond $26,000 at any PGA TOUR stop, but the code of ethics remains.

“Golf is in a fantastic place now,” Nicklaus told the audience. “We have so many young players out here now, terrific and talented, but they treat the game with respect.”

Nicklaus’ last tournament at Olympia Fields was the 1997 U.S. Senior Open. “Graham Marsh won it,” he said, that memory clicking again. “I just didn’t make enough putts.”