Rickie Lost His Number on 12

To borrow from the 1974 Steely Dan hit, Rickie Don't Lose that Number, "...its the only one you own, you might use it if feel better...when you get home." I don't think Rickie Fowler will be too happy when he gets home after surrendering a three shot lead in the final round at Jack Nicklaus's annual lovefest called The Memorial Tournament. The sickest number for Rickie was a 5 on the par 3, 12th hole. His tee ball found a "watery grave" after a very loose swing. One of his rare bad swings over four thrilling days in weather-plagued central Ohio.

Nonetheless, it was exhilerating for us golf fans to see a 21 year old rookie perform like a veteran in front of the golfing world on such a grand stage. This kid is so refreshing for a sport that sorely needs refreshment. Sure #1 in the world is still lurking around with that sullen mien in the continuation of his "annus horribilis." And he attracts the curious. But the real story is with the fast ascending #32 in the world, Rickie Fowler. And he attracts the hungry golf fan.

In case you're keeping score, here are Rickie's numbers after 16 events this year: 5 top ten finishes, #12 in Fedex Points, #12 on the money list with $1.98M. And it's only June.

Notwithstanding Rickie's lofty position and numbers in the world of golf, he still has to qualify for the US Open at Pebble Beach next week. That's the beauty of professional golf. Nothing is just given to you. You have to earn it. You have to perform. There are no days off. There are no guaranteed contracts. You are alone. And you have to perform month after month away from home. Glamourous? Not really.

So, Rickie heads off Monday for a 36 hole Open qualifier somewhere in Ohio. Last month, he missed qualifying for The British Open in St. Andrews. Sadly for the the Brits, they will be denied seeing this young golfing phenom this time. I have a feeling they will see him soon, probably, at Celtic Manor in Wales for the Ryder Cup in September.

The grandest stage for golf in our country, The US Open at Pebble Beach, needs Rickie. He is singularly special, as is our country. He's as all-American as a #2 animal style In and Out Burger. He's as exciting as a game 7 Stanley Cup Final.

It's GO TIME on Monday. May the force be with you at qualifying, my little friend. You are one cool little dude with a filthy golf game. See you at Pebble next week...I hope. The lady awaits you...I hear she is partial to orange.