Watson gives himself a birthday gift, shoots his age

CALGARY—Golf legend Tom Watson has an incredible number of achievements in his Hall of Fame career, but he’d never shot his age until the final round of the Shaw Charity Classic. And he accomplished the feat on his 67^th birthday.

Watson, who was making a rare Champions Tour appearance as he winds down his career, carded a 3-under 67 to finish 6-under for the tournament. On a day that could have been a challenge given the cool conditions for a self-described “old guy” at Canyon Meadows Golf and Country Club—Watson’s front nine heated up with four birdies. He made a couple of bogeys on his back nine, but rolled a short putt in on his final hole of the day to match his age. Watson had bettered his age several times—including a 65 on Friday—but had never shot a score equal to his age.

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Watson described the accomplishment as “pretty cool.”

“Any time you can shoot your age, it is fun,” he said. “It was perfect conditions—conditions are just fine. A little chilly, but not a problem for a guy from Kansas City.”

Watson praised the golf tournament, though he stopped short of saying he’d return next year. Watson only played six Champions Tour events prior to coming to Calgary.

“It is a wonderful golf tournament and the fan support is wonderful,” he said. “It is great playing in front of a lot of people.”

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As for birthday plans, the legend was in a rush to get home.

“I’m going to get on a plane, try to get home and maybe do a little late celebration,” he said.

As he walked away from the scoring tent, the nearby fans broke into a rendition of “Happy Birthday,” which garnered a smile from Watson. But at 67 he’s only interested in playing if he can be competitive. A terse “no” was the response to the question of whether he’d be interested in being more of a ceremonial golfer who is only lauded for past achievements.

“I’m still out here to compete,” he said. “I’m a little shorter—but not much shorter.”