Rory

If Rory McIlroy wins the US Open at Congressional CC today it will be a remarkable achievement on many different levels. His age, his birthplace and his recent history in a major tournament all make his probable victory today that much more unique and thrilling for all golf fans.

Age. At age 22, Rory, is on the cusp of becoming the youngest winner of the US Open since Georgian, Bobby Jones, who won at Inwood Country Club in 1923 at age 21. Before Jones the youngest winner was, Philadelphian, John McDermott, who won at Chicago Golf Club in 1911 at age 19. Usually, youth is not rewarded in major golf tournaments. Youth folds under the pressure of the event. Rory may be young on paper but he is wise and mature well beyond his years.

Birthplace. Rory was born in Holywood, Northern Ireland. Golf is part of the landscape of that area. Rory took to it early in his life. At age 16, Rory shot a 61 at the Dunluce Links course at Royal Portrush, regularly ranked in the top 15 courses in the world. His 61 stands as the course record on the designer Harry Colt's masterpiece which has been in existence since 1889. What will be remarkable if Rory wins today is that this soggy windswept dunesland golfing area, will have produced the last two US Open winners, Graeme McDowell, another Ulsterman, who won last year at Pebble Beach, and Rory this year. What's going on up North? Northern Ireland has about 2 million residents. Can you imagine a state like Nebraska, same size as Northern Ireland, producing two US Open winners not only back to back but ever? Maybe a steady diet of Guinness is good for you and great for golf.

Memories. Just this past April, Rory was leading the field after three rounds at Augusta National at the Masters. He teed off that fair April Sunday with a four shot lead. After five horrible hours, Rory lost his lead, the tournament and settled for an 80 and tied for 15th place. His collapse was epic. Talk about unending nightmares. It was sad to witness. Golf can be so cruel. But Rory never shirked from this defeat. He faced himself, the cameras, the media and all the punishing scrutiny with grace and humility. He may have lost the Masters that day but he gained a legion of admirers. It appears from his stellar play this week that he has put his Masters loss in the rear view mirror. After two months of introspection, he's ready to face the glare again. His loss at Augusta in April will embolden him to win today.

So, as Rory tees off in less than an hour in the final round holding an 8 shot lead, let's hope he wins. His age, his birthplace and his memories may all conspire positively for him today. Golf needs him to win. He's the new face of the sport. Refreshing. Pure. Talented. Respectful. Thrilling. Normal. But, he needs to win.

Good luck, Rory. May the force be with you today!