Gay Brewer: More Than Just a Loop Swing and a Green Jacket

Gay Brewer Jr. - the name might not immediately ring a bell for casual golf fans, but for those in the know, it represents a captivating blend of unorthodox talent, perseverance, and a genuine love for the game. He wasn't just another golfer; he was a character, a storyteller, and a Masters champion who defied conventional wisdom with every swing. So, what made Gay Brewer such a memorable figure in the world of golf?

A Swing That Raised Eyebrows (and Won Tournaments)

Brewer's swing was, shall we say, unique. Picture a loop so pronounced that it looked like he was trying to lasso the golf ball instead of hitting it. Legend has it that his high school coach almost cut him from the team because of it - until he saw the results. This unorthodox technique, a result of a childhood broken elbow, became his signature. It proved that in golf, as in life, what matters isn't how you look, but how you perform.

As golf writer John Alliss once put it, "There is perhaps a difference of as much as a couple of feet between the upswing and downswing planes." Can you imagine a modern-day coach allowing such a swing? Probably not. But Brewer made it work, and work brilliantly.

From Caddie to Champion: A Kentucky Story

Brewer's journey began humbly. He honed his skills at Picadome Golf Course in Lexington, Kentucky, first as a caddie, then as a junior competitor. Kentucky golf was in his blood, and he gave back to the community later in life. The Gay Brewer, Jr. Grant, for example, supports young Kentucky golfers who need financial aid to compete at a high level. The fund helps cover costs like travel and entry fees, giving these budding athletes the chance to shine. Isn't it inspiring to see a champion investing in the next generation?

Junior Success and a Collegiate Career

Before turning professional, Brewer won the U.S. Junior Amateur Championship in 1949. He then played college golf at the University of Kentucky, further solidifying his foundation for a successful professional career.

The PGA Tour Years: Triumph and Heartbreak

Brewer joined the PGA Tour in 1956, but his first win didn't come until 1961. But once he broke through, he won two more tournaments that year. His early career was marked by near-misses and playoff losses. The 1966 Masters stands out - a missed five-foot putt on the 72nd hole cost him the win, and he ultimately lost in an 18-hole playoff to Jack Nicklaus. Ouch! Can you imagine the pressure of that moment?

Masters Glory in 1967

But Brewer's resilience shone through. In 1967, he returned to Augusta National and claimed the Green Jacket, solidifying his place in golf history. His final round included a back-nine birdie charge, proving he could handle the pressure when it mattered most. As Nicklaus himself said, "For Gay to come back the next year and win a Green Jacket was fitting for such a tremendous person and a darn good player."

Two weeks prior to the Masters, Brewer won the Pensacola Open with an astounding 27-under-par. In that tournament, he also became the first golfer in PGA Tour history to score in back-to-back rounds!

Beyond the Majors: International Wins and Senior Success

Brewer's success wasn't limited to the PGA Tour. He won the Alcan Golfer of the Year tournament at St. Andrews and Royal Birkdale, demonstrating his ability to compete on the international stage. He even had a successful run on the Champions Tour, winning one official-money event and teaming up with Billy Casper to win the Liberty Mutual Legends of Golf.

The Legacy of Gay Brewer

Gay Brewer passed away in 2007, but his legacy lives on. He was remembered for his infectious personality, his engaging stories, and, of course, that unforgettable swing. He represents the spirit of golf - a game where passion, determination, and a little bit of quirkiness can take you to the top. He reminded us that golf isn't just about perfect form; it's about heart, grit, and the love of the game.

And that's something worth remembering, isn't it?

Quick Facts About Gay Brewer

• Born: March 19, 1932
• Died: August 31, 2007
• Nationality: American
• PGA Tour Wins: 10
• Major Championship: Masters Tournament (1967)
• U.S. Junior Amateur Champion: 1949
• Kentucky Athletic Hall of Fame Inductee