Michael Campbell wins the US Open

Last weekend, the golf championships of championships took place. The 105th US Open, my favorite Father's Day Tradition in which 150 plus of the world's greatest golfers are tested both mentally and physically at one of the most difficult courses in the world. This year, the victory goes to Michael Campbell, a native of New Zealand, who won his first major after coming oh so close 10 years ago in the British Open.

Not only did Campbell win, he did so in such admirable fashion at the historic Pinehurst No. 2 as we all remembered the late and great Payne Stewart, winner of the last US Open at Pinehurst back in 1999 who tragically died 4 weeks later in a plane crash. Now, pausing from the golf for a minute, I have to say this about Mr. Stewart. He is one of the most admirable sports figures I have seen. He lived for tradition right down to his traditional knickers pants, knee high socks, and old style golf cap. He played with grit and determination, battling back after losing a heartbreaker the year before to Lee Janzen. And more importantly, he is known most for being a great father. After edging Phil Mickelson by 1 shot to win in 1999, he told Mickelson who was wearing a beeper awaiting the call from his 9 month pregnant wife who could have gone into labor any minute that he (Payne) may have won the Open but Phil is getting something much greater, fatherhood.

And so when Michael Campbell gritted away to shoot 1 under par to finish Even for the championship and beat perrennial champion Tiger Woods by 2 while others around him faded, we could all see what it takes to win the US Open.

But, more importantly, we could remember how much more a great father (and mother) can be than any sports star will ever be. Payne Stewart just happenned to nail both.

To all a good night.