The Loop

Odds aren't against just Clark

April 09, 2009

AUGUSTA, Ga. -- So Tim Clark, who won the Par 3 Contest Wednesday, has taken an early lead in the Masters with a 68, leading to the inevitable observation that no one who has won the the Par 3 contest has gone on to win the real tournament.

Which is true. No argument here. But why stop there?

Kevin Sutherland is a stroke back, and according to Masters media officials here, no one named Kevin Sutherland has ever won the Masters.

Shingo Katayama is making a move, and my trusty media guide says no player wearing a cowboy hat has ever won the Masters (as Greg Norman can attest).

Jim Furyk is at 2-under par. According to Masters lore, no player who has ever pulled a muscle brushing his teeth has won the Masters, either (which Furyk famously did a few years back).

History can be overwhelming.

-- Sam Weinman