Big Moments In Sports 55xxxx 05 Lew Worsham Holes Out

Summary

Podcast Summary: Big Moments In Sports 55xxxx 05 Lew Worsham Holes Out

Podcast Information:

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Episode: Big Moments In Sports 55xxxx 05 Lew Worsham Holes Out
• Release Date: April 10, 2025

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Introduction

In the episode titled "Big Moments In Sports 55xxxx 05 Lew Worsham Holes Out," hosted by Harold's Old Time Radio, listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio to relive one of golf's most unforgettable moments. The episode delves into the dramatic events surrounding Lew Worsham's legendary wedge shot at the Tam O’Shanter Golf Tournament in August 1953, capturing the excitement and significance of this historic sports achievement.

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Background on Lew Worsham

Lew Worsham, born Lewis Elmer Worsham Jr. in Alta Vista, Virginia, emerged from humble beginnings as one of five children in a carpenter's family. His family's relocation to Washington, D.C., provided Lew with early exposure to golf, where he honed his skills while caddying at Kenwood Country Club. At 18, he received his first set of clubs after winning a caddie tournament, marking the beginning of his professional golfing career.

Worsham quickly ascended the ranks, securing positions at prestigious clubs such as the Chevy Chase Club and Burning Tree Golf Club—President Dwight D. Eisenhower's favored course. Despite holding these esteemed roles, Lew's ambition drove him to pursue competitive golf, joining the Oakmont Country Club near Pittsburgh as a playing professional post his honorable discharge from the Navy in 1946.

Quote: “Lew Worsham has won golf honors from coast to coast, including the coveted United States Open.” [01:16]

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The Tam O’Shanter Golf Tournament, August 1953

The Tam O’Shanter Golf Club near Chicago hosted what would become one of golf's most thrilling tournaments in August 1953. George May, the course owner, had elevated the event to the highest echelon of prize money, offering a $25,000 first-place prize—a substantial sum at the time. The tournament attracted top talents, including Chandler Harper and Jimmy Demerit, setting the stage for a high-stakes finale.

Quote: “We have about 15,000 fans along the fairway.” [07:59]

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The Historic Shot

As the tournament reached its climax on the 18th green, Chandler Harper held a commanding lead, seemingly destined to claim the championship. However, Lew Worsham, the underdog, was determined to make his mark. With Harper already appearing to secure victory, Worsham stepped up to the final hole with everything to play for.

On a par-four 18th hole, Worsham faced the daunting task of making a birdie to challenge Harper's lead. Opting to use his trusty wedge, known officially as the double service niblick, he executed a shot that would etch his name into golfing folklore.

Quote: “Most fantastic golf shots of all time. And worth $25,000.” [13:56]

Described in vivid detail by commentator Ryan Seacrest, Worsham's shot soared 120 yards, landing on the edge of the green and rolling toward the pin. Against expectations, the ball sank into the cup, securing an eagle and a stunning victory over Harper.

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Aftermath and Legacy

Worsham's eagle shot not only clinched the $25,000 prize but also catapulted him into national fame. The immediate aftermath saw him signing lucrative exhibition contracts, securing endorsements, and making appearances across various media platforms. Sporting goods companies and department stores experienced a surge in demand for the "Worsham Wedge," capitalizing on his newfound celebrity.

This remarkable achievement was Worsham's second significant victory, following his 1947 U.S. Open triumph over Sammy Snead. Both victories were marked by high tension and unforgettable finishes, solidifying Worsham's reputation as a clutch performer under pressure.

Quote: “Worsham is being carried to the locker room. It's a day he'll Never forget.” [13:56]

The Tam O’Shanter victory remains a seminal moment in golf history, celebrated for its dramatic conclusion and the sheer skill demonstrated by Worsham. George May commemorated the shot by placing a marker on the 18th fairway, ensuring the site remains a pilgrimage point for golf enthusiasts.

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Worsham’s Reflections

Reflecting on his legendary shot, Worsham remained humble, attributing his success to a blend of skill and fortune.

Quote: “Heck, who knows what came first, the chicken or the egg. For Worsham, however, that wedge shot was a golden egg.” [13:56]

This sentiment underscores the unpredictable nature of sports, where preparation meets opportunity to create unforgettable moments.

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Conclusion

The "Big Moments In Sports 55xxxx 05 Lew Worsham Holes Out" episode by Harold's Old Time Radio masterfully recounts a pivotal event in golfing history. Through detailed narration and engaging storytelling, listeners gain an intimate understanding of Lew Worsham's journey, the intensity of the 1953 Tam O’Shanter Golf Tournament, and the lasting impact of Worsham's extraordinary wedge shot. This episode not only celebrates a remarkable sports achievement but also highlights the timeless allure of golf's most dramatic moments.

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Notable Quotes

• “We have about 15,000 fans along the fairway.” – Ryan Seacrest [07:59]

• “Most fantastic golf shots of all time. And worth $25,000.” – Ryan Seacrest [13:56]

• “Heck, who knows what came first, the chicken or the egg. For Worsham, however, that wedge shot was a golden egg.” – Lew Worsham [13:56]

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This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of the "Big Moments In Sports" episode, providing an engaging and informative account for both avid golf fans and general listeners alike.

Transcript

[Ryan Seacrest]

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[Harry Wismer]

Your United States Air Force presents Big.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Moments in Sports.

[Harry Wismer]

Tam O'Shanter Golf August 1953 Lew Wesham's famous Wedge shot this.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Is Harry Wismer bringing you a big moment in sports history. What you are about to hear is a dramatic recreated account of a never to be forgotten sports event at the peak of its power packed action. It's a story that has been and will be retold as long as people talk about sports. But first, before we turn back the clock, here is Bill Reddick with a word from the United States Air Force.

[Harry Wismer]

Top athletes know there's no substitute for the best coaching and training to produce a winner. And the same formula holds true for success in a career. Now take yourself, for instance. Could this be you four years from today? A man skilled in the technical knowledge that can pay him huge dividends the rest of his life? A man with the confidence and advantages of world travel and a nation's respect and esteem. To repeat, does this sound like you four years from today? Well, it can be. You in the United States Air Force? Yes, men, you'll go places faster as an airman in the Air Force. If you qualify, you'll receive the finest technical training from top experts of the country. And you earn while you learn. There are more than 400 different subjects in which you may train in such growing fields as radar, medicine, personnel, meteorology and many more. So if you want a future that looks brighter, see your nearest Air Force recruiter right away and get the facts about your future as an airman. Now back to Harry Wismer.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Lew Wersham has won golf honors from coast to coast, including the coveted United States Open. But as long as the game is played, he will be identified with a single shot and a single club, the double service niblick, better known as the wedge. Two men have good reason to remember Worsham and his wedge. They are Chandler Harper and Jimmy Demerit, two of professional golf's brightest stars these two will always remember standing on the 18th green at the Tam O'Shanner Golf Club near Chicago late one Sunday afternoon in August 1953, waiting for the finish of the tournament that was expected to see Harper crowned the world champion. At that moment, with most of the famous field already in, Harper led by what most of the huge gallery thought a safe two strokes Demerit, who was guesting with your commentator on a national network, had all but conceded the tournament and the $25,000 first place money to his Virginia friend Chandler Harper. However, let's go back a few years and recall some of the most famous winning shots of the past, shots that have already made golfing history. First to mind was that famous putt by Bobby Jones at wingfoot in the 1929 U.S. open. That wasn't a long one, only about 12ft, but it was perhaps the toughest ever. Canned under tremendous pressure, remember the circumstances. Al Espinoza had finished with a 294 for the 72 holes. Jones came to the final hole, a 435 yarder, needing a par four to tie. He put his second into the trap on the left while thousands watched breathlessly. Bobby came out weakly. He faced a 12 footer with a curl to tie. Jones sank it and then went on to beat Espinosa by 23 strokes in the 36 hole playoff. Then there was Lloyd Mangram, 65 footer in the playoff at Canterbury in 1946. This wasn't the dramatic final shot which meant the difference, but all who saw Mangram's long curler agree. It was the turning putt which eventually won Lloyd the crown. Mangram was battling Baron Nelson and Vic gezzi after a three way tie for the 72 hole route. Lloyd had fallen a stroke behind and seemed completely out when he drove out of bounds in the ninth hole. Playing three off the tee. He put his second on the far left of the green with the pin 65ft away. But Mangram, using a flat headed wooden putter, snaked the ball up and down mound after mound directly into the cup for an unbelievable five. The others three putted. It enabled Lloyd to tie Nelson and Gezi at the end of 18, then come through the second time around. One of the greatest shots of all time was Dr. Kerry Middlekop's 82 foot putt which he sank for an eagle three on the 13th hole of the second round of a recent Masters in Augusta. The shot enabled Middlekoff to finish with a 65 and on his way to a seven stroke victory. Now let's get back on the course with our friend Lew Wersham Lewis Elmer Worsham Jr. Was born in Alta Vista, Virginia, not far from Lynchburg. He was one of five children of a carpenter. His family moved to Washington, D.C. when he was a boy, and Lou learned the rudiments of golf while caddying at Kenwood Country Club just outside the capital city. He received his first set of clubs from the operator of the public courses in Washington as his prize for winning a caddie tournament at 18. Not too long after, he turned pro and was hired as an assistant in the golf shop at the fashionable Chevy Chase Club. A short time later, he took over as pro at the exclusive Burning Tree Golf Club. Burning Tree, in nearby Maryland, is better known as the home course of another named golfer President Dwight D. Eisenhower. But even while holding the top job at one of the most elite clubs in Goffdom, Lou, at 21, had itchy hands to try his luck on the tournament trail. It all became a reality when another of the District's more fashionable layouts offered Lew a playing professionals post. It was now 1943, and with World War II still in need of men, young Mr. Worsham joined the Navy. He received his honorable discharge in 1946 and almost immediately turned to tournament play. He joined the Oakmont Country Club near Pittsburgh as playing professional and has been there ever since. Which brings us right up to date at the famous Tam O'Shanner Golf Tournament outside of Chicago in August of 1953. Now, before big Moments in Sports brings you the thrilling account of one of the greatest shots in the history of golf, here is Bill Reddick with a message of interest to all young men who want to go places faster.

[Harry Wismer]

Many times an athlete has some special talent or ability, yet never quite finds a way to use it on the playing field. And the same applies to everyday life. For instance, you may happen to be a service veteran with a special skill you learned in the service, yet you find this skill going to waste. So listen, maybe you can put your skill to work as a member of the United States Air Force. The Air Force needs experience and know how gained in all of the armed forces. If you possess one of the critical skills needed to keep America's air defense strong, you can put your experience to work in the Air Force and at a higher grade and higher pay than you may realize. You've earned credits toward a well paying retirement policy, so protect your initial investment. For full details, write or visit your Air Force recruiter and ask for the prior serviceman's folder this folder will show you why today and tomorrow, you're better off in the United States air Force. Chicago, Illinois. August 1953. Lew Wesham's famous wedge shot at Tam O shatter.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Good afternoon, everybody. This is Harry Wismer speaking to you from the 18th green of the Tam O'Shanter Golf Club here on the outskirts of Chicago. George May, the owner of this course, has developed this tournament into the biggest prize money show in the sport. Today, top man, or should I say the one with the low score, will walk out of the locker room $25,000 richer. We have just watched Chandler Harper, the Portsmouth, Virginia pro, finish with a total of 279. He dropped a nine iron shot within two feet of the pin for a birdie on this last hole. And believe me, folks, it was a beauty. Jimmy Demerit on my left says that it was one of the greatest shots he has ever seen. And he can't see how anyone can come close to tying Harper. In fact, he has already told our viewers that Harper has all but pocketed the $25,000 check as the winner. There is great interest in this final hole. I would say roughly that we have about 15,000 fans along the fairway. Now teeing off for the payoff hole is Lou Worsham of the Oakmont Country Club near Pittsburgh. Former National Open champion and the last player of the day. This veteran pro is a determined guy. He enters every tournament where it is humanly possible to play. There's Lou's drive. It has height, but the wind may hold it up a bit. The ball is landing. Ball's dead. No bounce at all. Pretty good spot on the fairway on the left side, giving him an opening into the pin. I would judge it to be about a 270 yard drive. You know, this is a par four hole here at 18, so you see, he has to go some to even. Ty Harper needs a birdie. Three, actually. Worsham is squinting up to the pin. I don't know what he has in mind. Worsham is talking it over with his caddy now. He's going to his bag for another club. Evidently, he doesn't care too much for the one he had. He's going for the wedge. He's back talking to his caddy again. I guess he can't make up his mind. The crowd is very quiet now. He's over his ball. This is a big moment. Worsham swings. It seems to have been hit low. Actually, he has topped the shot. It hits on the edge of the green. The ball is 45ft away from the cup and is rolling toward the pin. Rolling, rolling, rolling. He could get his birdie inside a match, but no, it's in the cup for an eagle too. Most fantastic golf shots of all time. And worth $25,000. Lou Worsham has put the ball into the cup from 120 yards out. And with a wedge, Worsham wins with a 278. What a champion. The crowd is running all over the place. I don't believe Lou realizes he has made it. They're trying to tell him it's all over as he comes over the bridge. But for some reason he just won't believe them. I'm telling you folks, I've broadcast some great finishes in Goff, but this really tops them all. It was a miracle of the greens. The players are carrying Worsham on their shoulders. And I'll guarantee you this has never happened before. I have never seen anything like this on a golf course anywhere. Worsham is being carried to the locker room. It's a day he'll Never forget. The $25,000 check Lew Ersham got that evening from George May might well have been called. The first down payment on a fortune for that single dramatic shot made Mr. Worsham a rich and famous man. Lou was immediately signed to a contract calling for 35 exhibitions at golf clubs around the country at $1,000 each, plus all expenses. Then came almost every kind of endorsement under the sun. Plus radio, television and movie shorts. Winning the rich Tam O'Shanner World Championship before a large television and radio audience put Lew over the top. His dramatic finish made fans of thousands who hadn't given golf more than a passing thought. Sporting goods companies and department stores all over the nation reported they were swamped with demands for the Worsham wedge. Worsham's Tam o Shanner victory was not the first opportunity Lou had to cash in on the game. His first chance came after he beat Sammy snead for the U.S. open in St. Louis in 1947. That was the year he challenged Snead and who was away for the final putt. Sammy missed his and Lou came through for the crown. There was drama in that one too. Worsham and Snead were in a tense 18 hole playoff at the time. Lou was a little known newcomer in big time golf and Snead was rated with the great masters at the St. Louis Country Club. The two finished the regular 72 holes in the tie for the title at 282. Forcing a playoff stroke for stroke. Lou and Sam battled down to the 18th green where they were left with almost the identical putts. Worsham said he was away and asked for a measurement. Snead was 30 and a half inches away. Worsham, a half inch less, visibly rattled. Sneed missed. Lew made his putt good for a 69 to Sneed 70 and and the championship. Lew Worsham has come a long way since he won his first set of clubs as a caddy. He's a big attraction in every tournament in which he competes. He'll be a name player for years to come and probably one of the richest. All because of the 120 yard wedge shot he made at the Tam O'Shanner. It was a shot that will never be forgotten by all who play the course near Chicago. George S. May has seen to that. He has placed a mark around the 18th fairway at the spot where Worsham made his fantastic shot. Was it skill? Was it luck? Lew Wersham's only comment is, heck, who knows what came first, the chicken or the egg. For Worsham, however, that wedge shot was a golden egg.

[Harry Wismer]

Big Moments in Sports with Harry Wismer is directed by Gene Kirby, written by Arthur Susskind Jr. And presented by the United States Air Force in Kau operation with this station. This is Bill Reddick speaking.

[Ryan Seacrest]

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