My first trip to this iconic tournament was terrific! I thoroughly enjoyed the Wednesday practice round at the 2012 Masters in Augusta where the weather was beautiful (until 3:30 p.m.), walking the course for the first time was unbelievable, and the Augusta National business model was making the sounds of peak performance. If you’re not familiar with the rich traditions and world famous course, check out my short photo essay here.
It was also interesting to encounter three different leaders whose choices have made a significant impact on their industry, their personal lives and the world.
Arnold Palmer – We caught up with the legend himself, nicknamed “The King”, sitting in the shade in his well earned Green Jacket. Arnie played in the Masters his first time in 1955, won his first of four in 1958 and played in 50 consecutive Masters tournaments. He still shows up annually at the Masters to serve as one of the honorary pros, along with Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player, to start the tournament off by playing the Par 3 tournament on Wednesday and launching a ceremonial tee shot at the opening round on Thursday. The positive impact on his industry from his choices as a leader are indisputable.
During his career:
After retiring:
Tiger Woods – Undoubtedly one of the best golfers in the history of the game. He turned pro in 1996 and one year later won his first major – The Masters. Since then, he has been the world number one the most consecutive weeks and the most total weeks; more than any other golfer. He has been awarded PGA Player of the Year a record 10 times. He has the record for leading the money list – 9 different seasons. He is the youngest player ever to win the Grand Slam and the youngest and fastest to win 50 tournaments on the tour. But Tiger’s personal choices as a leader have had a significant negative impact on himself, those around him and his industry.
Sgt. Jay Fain – On Wednesday, the last practice day before the Masters tournament begins, there’s a Par 3 championship for Masters pros who choose to participate. It’s a fun event featuring not only some of the pros who are going to compete the next day in the Masters tournament, but also some of the returning, retired winners like Palmer, Nicklaus and Player. Each participant is able and even encouraged to select anyone they want to caddie for them. Most of them choose their wives, children and/or friends. Zach Johnson had his wife and four little kids along. Tom Watson chose Sgt. Jay Fain to be part of his caddie crew. Sgt. Fain is a terrific, visible example of selfless choices as a leader.
The choices you make really do define the leader you become. And the choices you make are not just about you. They’re about the positive impact you can have on your organization, your community and beyond. Our world needs everyday leaders who will choose to make it a better place.
Added Note:
That’s what Chick-fil-A® Leadercast® is all about. On May 4, 2012 you will be inspired with life-changing insights from world-renowned leaders. This one of a kind event will be broadcast live from Atlanta and simulcast around the world including the auditorium at American Family Insurance. Join more than 125,000 leaders from around the world and make positive choices that matter. Go here for local information.
