Torrey Pines is a special place for our family. In 2008, we were the guests of the Golf Channel to the US Open Championship as a result of MJ winning the Father’s Day Essay Contest. Tiger Woods dramatic win in a playoff against Rocco Mediate is arguably one of his best victories. He played virtually on one leg as a result of a painful knee injury. MJ's essay was selected from 25,000 entries. He also won merchandise including a set of custom-made Taylor Made golf clubs and pro bag with his name on it. His win put us on national television on Father’s Day. It is an eternal memory in our rich memory bank.
As a Hall-of-Famer golfer, MJ was invited by the USGA to attend the 2021 US Open Championship this year. Torrey Pines is a slice of heaven with 2 great courses flanking the great blue Pacific.
We stayed at the nearby Hilton Torrey Pines. It is a fantastic facility with stellar service, multiple restaurants, pool, spa and balcony rooms with heavenly views of the manicured golf course and hang gliders soaring over the majestic cliffs and ‘deep blue’ Pacific Ocean.
This year was also very special as the golfers enjoyed perfect weather and challenging conditions with the golf course playing 7800 yards, lightning-fast greens and a penal rough for wayward golf shots.
It was a battle to the end with Jon Rahm winning by one stroke and being crowned the 2021 US Open Champion with a score of minus 6. It was only fitting after being disqualified the week before as a result of testing positive for Covid. He also proposed to his wife on the 18th hole last year.
Here is MJ's winning essay. It had to be 200 words or less. The words are ‘inspiring’ for any golfer or any person. Enjoy
Golf Channel Winning Father’s Day Essay 2008 US Open Torrey Pines
By Michael (MJ) McColgan
I have been playing golf since I was 5 years old.
Having been born with a walking disability, my Dad taught me to focus on my ability and not my disability.
As a result, I have won 7 straight Northern California Special Olympics State Championships, 3 National Championships, and been inducted into 2 Hall of Fames—2004 San Francisco Tri Valley and 2006 Michigan having been born there.
My Dad taught me that golf, like life, is a hard game but with a positive attitude, proper instruction and a will to win, anything can and will happen. In a round of golf, never-never give up.
He also told me to enjoy the beauty and many friends I will make in this game. He often told me that one could go out as a single player and meet three strangers on the first tee and by the end of the round be friends for life.
Finally, he taught me to never get nervous on the first tee. Like life, getting off to a good start is very important.
Thanks Dad!
