Golf may be a sport known for its decorum and tradition, but every once in a while, the unexpected happens – especially when golf carts are involved. From wild rides to bizarre mishaps, pro golfers have had their fair share of unforgettable moments behind the wheel. Join us as we take a look back at the five craziest golf cart moments in pro golf history.
-
John Daly's Wild Ride at the 1998 Bay Hill Invitational: In what would become one of the most infamous moments in golf cart history, John Daly took fans on a wild ride during the 1998 Bay Hill Invitational. After hitting multiple balls into the water on the par-5 6th hole, Daly grew frustrated and decided to call it quits. But instead of walking off the course like most players, Daly hopped in a nearby golf cart and drove straight to the parking lot, leaving his caddie and playing partners behind. The surreal scene was captured on live television and quickly became the talk of the tournament.
-
The Beer Run Incident at the 2014 U.S. Open: During the practice rounds of the 2014 U.S. Open at Pinehurst Resort, a group of amateur golfers decided to take advantage of the empty course and go on a beer run – in a golf cart. As they raced across the fairways, dodging bunkers and narrowly avoiding other players, their antics were caught on camera and quickly went viral. While their behavior was certainly reckless, it provided a moment of comic relief amidst the intense competition of the U.S. Open.
-
The Bubba Watson Hovercraft: In 2013, Bubba Watson made headlines when he unveiled his custom-designed golf cart – a hovercraft. Dubbed the "BW1," the hovercraft allowed Watson to glide effortlessly across the course, hovering over water hazards and sand traps with ease. While the hovercraft was more of a promotional stunt than a practical mode of transportation, it showcased Watson's playful personality and flair for innovation.
-
Miguel Ángel Jiménez's Cigar-Smoking Celebration: Known for his love of cigars and flamboyant personality, Miguel Ángel Jiménez provided fans with a memorable moment during the 2014 Open Championship at Royal Liverpool. After sinking a birdie putt on the 17th hole, Jiménez celebrated in style by hopping into a nearby golf cart, lighting up a cigar, and cruising down the fairway with a smile on his face. The iconic image captured the essence of Jiménez's larger-than-life persona and became an instant classic.
-
The Phil Mickelson "Pathfinder" Incident: During the 1999 Ryder Cup at The Country Club in Brookline, Massachusetts, Phil Mickelson found himself in a precarious situation on the 17th hole. With his ball nestled against the grandstand, Mickelson decided to enlist the help of a nearby golf cart to clear a path for his shot. After removing a few barriers, Mickelson climbed into the cart and drove it backward down the cart path, narrowly avoiding spectators and camera crews along the way. While Mickelson's creativity was commendable, the incident sparked controversy and raised questions about the use of golf carts in professional tournaments.
In conclusion, while golf carts may seem like a mundane aspect of the game, they have been at the center of some of the most unforgettable moments in pro golf history. From John Daly's wild ride to Bubba Watson's hovercraft, these incidents serve as a reminder that even in a sport as traditional as golf, anything can happen when you throw a golf cart into the mix.