It is now almost 8 1/2 years, since we lost a true gentleman of gentleman ... Payne Stewart. When I taped a Fashion demo at The Tour Championship at East Lake in Atlanta last year, I was priviliged to witness the ceremony for the Payne Stewart award and meet Tracy Stewart in person. Anytime the spirit of Payne touches me, I feel a very special emotion ... I enjoyed so much seeing him play and was always dressed for the occasion. During the one time I spent time with Payne in person during a photo shoot at Isleworth, Payne was his usual self ... needling an enthusiastic fan and fellow clothes horse. The memorial service at the First Baptist church in Orlando, were the most inspiring two hours of my entire life. I had two pair of shoes made identical to Payne's way back and every time I wear them ... my swing seems to have better rhythm.
Recently Payne's spirit has visited in the form of the soon to open Payne Stewart Golf Club in Branson Missouri http://www.paynestewartgolfclub.com/, a very special tribute to the life and legacy of Payne. I met Bobby Clampett who is designing the golf course during the recent PGA show and Bobby introduced me to Bob Allen who has the honorable calling of being the Director of Golf. I have become quick friends with Bob Allen and can tell you, that this will be one of the most special experiences in Golf anywhere in the world.
My good friend Robert Lohrer, whom I have known for 15 years through our profession we share, recently wrote a blog on his new web site http://www.styledtoatee.com/ with a wonderful idea. Paul Azinger and Payne were the best of friends, how about the American Ryder Cup team wearing plus fours/knickers during a practice round or competition this September? Payne would have certainly been a Ryder Cup captain by now at age 51. It would be a great tribute to a great man, whose spirit will live forever in the great world of Golf.
2 comments:
There are also some great
Branson shows to see if you ever head that way!
I think the PGA Tour established the Payne Stewart Award, given each year to a player who shows respect for the traditions of the game, commitment to uphold the game's heritage of charitable support and professional and meticulous presentation of himself and the sport through his dress and conduct
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