Payne Stewart And A Nearly Forgotten North Carolina Charity Golf Tournament 25 Years Ago
There’s something about the US Open being contested at Pinehurst. Yesterday’s amazing victory by Bryson DeChambeau was one for the ages. And of course, no one will ever forget the US Open ending 25 years ago authored by Payne Stewart.
What has been forgotten to time is what happened AFTER Payne Stewart won that US Open Championship in 1999. I had almost forgotten this story. I’m glad I was reminded this morning.
Payne Stewart Didn’t Spend The Day After Winning Celebrating?
I guess that question is best answered by what your definition of celebrating is. Further, his actions explain what a man like Payne Stewart would have considered, “celebrating.” Let me explain. Before the US Open that year, Payne’s caddie Mike Hicks (a North Carolina native) had asked him to participate in a charity tournament in Mebane, North Carolina, the day after the event. Keep in mind, although EVERYONE wants to win the US Open, you have a 1-160 chance, so making plans like this is not unusual. Payne, of course agreed and fellow professionals/friends like Fred Couples, Paul Azinger, and Hal Sutton agreed as well. The story goes that Hicks told Payne he didn’t have to do the tournament. Payne Stewart, was Bill Stewart’s son. Bill Stewart’s son honored his commitments. To not play in his caddie’s event was not even a thought or consideration.
Payne Stewart Played In Mebane After Winning The US Open?
As hard as it is to believe (and I’m certain it wouldn’t happen today), the day after a historic US Open win. The champion, Payne Stewart and his three professional golfing buddies teed it up at Mill Creek Golf Club in Mebane. And again, I point out there was NO prize money on the line. There was no appearance fees paid. This was a 100% charity event and the players were there for free as a favor to Mike Hicks and Payne Stewart. According to WRAL Sports, “By some accounts, more than 5,000 people were at the charity tournament to watch. It was likely just another round of golf, but for the fans, it was and is a timeless memory.”
Bryson DeChambeau paid tribute to Payne Stewart’s (a fellow SMU alum) on-course achievement at Pinehurst in his victory speech yesterday. I’m not sure what his plans are today, but wouldn’t it be great if he spent it in charitable tribute to Payne Stewart as well.
