December 5, 2009

Hello....   I grew up watching Arnold Palmer play golf.  Growing up in Palm Springs you could not help like or love the game of Golf.  I have a fond memory of Arnold Palmer.  It was the early 1980's...'81 if I remember correctly, I was at the Sands Hotel in San Diego.  My Uncle Jess was the General Manager of the hotel at the time.  We went down every year for a visit & he would put us up in the hotel...  Sea World, boating, & Golf.  They had a driving range at the Sands.  So I went down & hit balls for hours.  I was Teeing off on one shot & I saw a crowd of people heading my way on the backside of the drving range.  Anyway, I hit the ball & it soared for the 1st time over 200 yards... Mine you I was 11 years old, so I was very excited.  From behind I heard a voice...saying, "The was a very good drive there young man"!  I turned around & it was Mr. Arnold Palmer himself...surrounded by a group of Arine's Army.  I was like WOW...  I got to meet my golfing hero...  We chated for a minute & he headed back to the hotel.  I was so excited I ran back to find my Mom to tell her. 

     I will cherish that moment forever.  Thank you Mr. Palmer, you are the GREATEST!!!  Have a Happy 80th Birthday!!!  See you at the Arnold Palmer's Restaurant in La Quinta...  God Bless you & keep you & yours!!!

Sincerely,

David Clarish