Countdown to the Masters 2011 – Day 23: Weir is first left-hander to win
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Welcome to Day 23 of the Today’s Golfer Countdown to The Masters 2011. Every day from February 17th until the big day when the season’s first Major tees off, April 7th, we will be bringing you some of our favourite memorable moments from The Masters since the tournament started in 1934.
Not only was Mike Weir the first Canadian to win a Major in 2003 but he was also the first left-hander to win the Masters. He earned his Green Jacket by defeating American Len Mattiace on the first play-off hole after both players tied on -7 after 72 holes.
Weir shot a bogey-free 68 on the final day, while Mattiace romped to a best-of-the-day 65. Weir’s historic win would never have been if it weren’t for a Mattiace bogey on 18, but it was still a fantastic effort from the journeyman pro in only his second Masters.
The destination of the 2003 title was decided on the 10th. With Weir on the green, Mattiace pulled his second shot left. Despite leaving eight feet for par, some sloppy chipping and putting from the American left Weir with two putts to win the title.
“It’s an unbelievable feeling,” said Weir as he was presented with his Green Jacket by defending champion Tiger Woods.
“It’s something I’ve dreamt about for a long time and worked very hard for it. It’s a thrill and tough for me to put into words because I wouldn’t do it justice.”
Weir does everything else apart from playing golf right-handed, a trait he shares with the only other left-handed to have won the Masters since, Phil Mickelson.
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