And the legend continues to grow. As I write this, Michael Block is not smashing it today in his first round at the Charles Schwab Challenge, sitting at +5 through 14 holes. But that doesn’t mean his round has been without some magic. With a driver that’s been a bit unwieldy thus far, the consensus is that Block is likely a bit physically and mentally fatigued from the week he’s had. Let’s not forget the absolute rollercoaster this guy’s been on over the past 7 days.
After an absolutely legendary 4 rounds at the PGA Championship last week, Block is playing in this week’s PGA tour event under a special exemption and, regardless of what we all want to think, I’m sure there is a whole different energy this time around. Still, it’s tough not to think this guy finished 15th overall in a Major Championship a few days ago, so he should be able to come out here and compete on a high level, right??
Again, it’s worth noting that Michael Block isn’t a touring pro: he’s a PGA teaching pro. And while he’s got plenty of game, he’s not used to all this attention, media, and the rigors of tour life. I’d wager his round tomorrow – assuming he can get some rest this evening – will be much better than what we’ve seen from him today. But don’t make the mistake of thinking there was no magic in Block’s round.
An unreal shot from a bridge!
In pretty unbelievable fashion, after Block’s slightly-off-course driver left him literally sitting on a bridge on hole 10, he pulled out one of the wildest recovery shots I’ve ever seen. From the angle the cameras were in, it not only looked like a shot that had no chance of getting out: it looked impossible being hit from the concrete!
And yet, in typical Michael Block fashion, the guy stepped up and delivered another signature shot, continuing to build on the legend that will follow him regardless of how this weekend goes. Block’s story is one that resonates on a deep, deep level with amateur golfers around the world, and regardless of whether or not his career ever sees another performance like last week’s at the PGA Championship, Block will likely remain the hero of weekend warriors for a very, very long time. I know I’m loving watching him today!