PERMISSION TO WIN
You can’t outperform your self-image.
—DENNIS CONNOR
Life is a collection of self-fulfilling prophecies.
—JOHN NABOR
Before the tournament began, few gave him a chance to contend, much less win. Jean Van de Velde was a 150-to-i underdog. But to the amazement of the golf world, and Scottish bookmakers, there he was on Sunday, standing on the tee of the 72nd hole at Carnoustie, leading the 1999 British Open by three shots.
One hole to go. All Van de Velde had to do was make six at number 18. A double bogey and golf’s oldest prize was his. The soft voice of reason told the dashing Frenchman to do the smart thing: play conservatively. Hit a five iron off the tee, then another five iron, then a wedge to the green. Two putts later ...
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