The Open 2016: Lee Westwood’s son Sam recalls first-hand dad’s game and Phil Mickelson’s 63 at Troon
Sam reveals what inside-the-ropes experience was like on first day of season's third Major championship
SAM WESTWOOD, 15, spent the day inside the ropes, trailing dad, Lee. This is an account of his 'awesome' experience.
THIS WAS 'Bring your son to work day' — with a difference and a half.
Being allowed to walk inside the ropes and following my father round the course at Troon is simply awesome — and it does have special moments.
He is always just 'dad' to me, and watching him work is no different, although you do experience lots of emotions.
When dad got his eagle on 16 he came over and gave me a little fist pump.
That was awesome. There were tough bits too — around the turn he had to battle it out. But I don't notice any edge to him at all.
He doesn't change because he has a golf club in his hand.
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At the 12th hole he had to pop off to the loo. As he walked back I said 'Come on, Westy' as he passed to try to gee him up.
He looked at me in a dad kind of way and said: "Don't call me Westy!" My job is to help dad unwind between his rounds. I can't go home with him and say 'Right, it's time to have a psychology session'. I can't pull his game to pieces.
We play a bit of football in the garden of our house here with my sister and that helps him relax.
We'll eat dinner together and just do the normal things a family does. I hope that helps.
It really has been awesome to be part of it. Watching Phil Mickelson get round in 63 and go so close to making history is something you don't forget quickly.
I'm coming back tomorrow too and I'll be right by dad's side again for another day at work — and I can''t wait.