Lehman shows, unlike 'Caddyshack,' that Gophers belong on a golf course

By BRIAN STENSAAS, Star Tribune

Last update: August 16, 2009 - 10:57 PM

In any other PGA Tour event, the fine print reading "Scottsdale, AZ" next to Tom Lehman's name in the official program would draw nary a second look. Minnesota golf fans know better. Though he's been away for some time, Lehman will always be a Minnesotan.

That showed Sunday.

Well out of the PGA Championship race at 9 over par, Lehman, an Alexandria native and former Gopher, walked up the hill in front of the 18th green to the biggest standing ovation this side of you know who.

In thanks for the support, Lehman saluted the crowd by holding up his driver -- topped by an old, furry Minnesota Gophers head cover.

"It was a nice reception," said Lehman, who also blew kisses toward the bleachers once he reached the green.

Somewhere, a fan started singing the Minnesota Rouser. Lehman jovially doffed his cap. It was one of those moments when even someone with the hardest of hearts would have trouble fighting off the goose bumps.

"It made me feel very appreciated," Lehman said. "It was a special moment."

He eventually made par on the final hole, ending a stressful up and down week. For the tournament, Lehman played the first six holes in a combined 15 over, and holes No. 7 through 11 in a combined 9 under.

"Nothing but these highs and lows," Lehman said. "Nothing but a wild week full of mountains and valleys. It's difficult to play that way; it's not fun to struggle that way."

After taking a double-bogey 7 on the par-3 17th on Sunday, Lehman saw a cousin in the gallery.

She was one of numerous family and friends joining the scores of well-wishing fellow Minnesotans cheering his every shot. "She couldn't have picked a worse time to say hello," Lehman said jokingly. "I was in no mood to walk over and say, 'Hey, how's life? How are the kids?'"

Lehman's father, Jim Sr., was also among those in attendance this week despite battling a serious heath issue.

"He really enjoyed being here," Lehman said. "He's just not doing well healthwise, and it's good for him to get out and be here. I know he was proud of me."

Complete strangers were in the same boat. Lehman aimed to give them a reason to be satisfied. "I just didn't want to embarrass myself in front of the home fans," Lehman said. "I wanted to give these fans something to cheer about."

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