Every year, there are several occasions when a golfer seemingly gives away a tournament well in hand. Stewart Cink gave away a few shots today and lost.
Just as when he lost to Tiger Woods at the WGC World Match Play Championship a few weeks ago, as soon Sean O'Hair won the tournament, it began. "How big of a setback is this for Cink?" "How long will it take him to recover?" "Can he overcome this loss?'
Sure, he some shots went awry. He got a bit out of synch (no pun intended) and found himself down the leaderboard at days end. Word has it that Cink, at age 35, is concerned that he has only two wins on tour. He's been pleased with the progress he's been making, but he wants more wins. Rightly so.
There are times when a blown tournament should cause some reflection, even embarassment, but not this week and not ordinarily. Cink should Look at the bigger picture:
- How many people didn't even make the cut?
- What did you do to get yourself into contention?
- How many players didn't have a legitimate shot at winning?
- This loss can provide either negative or positive feedback, it's your choice.
Yes. Easier said than done, but not impossible. In fact, it's essential to take a positive mental position.
Stewart Cink is a fantastic player and, by all accounts, a fantastic person. He has nothing to recover from, only a bright next decade or so on the PGA Tour to look forward too.
