GOLF STYLIST.

Auckland Star, Volume LXIV, Issue 237, 7 October 1933, Page 5 (Supplement)

GOLF STYLIST.

Sam Richardson Impresses the

Critics.

Contrary to general opinion, and contrary to some signs, Richardson is one of the keenest and shrewdest golfers in the professional ranks. But if he put just a little more "work" and "grimness" into each of his shots, he would develop a concentration that would most likely make a big difference. He is a future open champion, states a Melbourne critic. '

In his play for the national professional title lie simply walked through the field. In his first match he went 30 holes, 32 in the next 2, and then in the final took his opponent only 29. He is a great young golfer, and carries more golfing "horse sense".in his black head than most people think. If he was not such a casual youth he would lie looked upon as one of the oracles of the game here. And he has a whole lot of personality.

-Co matter how many players go out after a golf title only one can succeed. For all except that one- there must be disappointment. But the disappointment can be particularly keen when after great showings two of the most coveted titles of the year are within grasp, only to be snatched away at the last moment.

Last year at Seaton some of us were greatly intrigued by the play of Sam Richardson, the then 24 years old Sydney professional. We bracketed him with M. .T. Ryan as the star stylist of the meeting. He was also rated as one of the favourites for the big title of that year. However, his putting and inexperience let him down. But we still felt sure he would "come good."

When he returned to his home State Richardson proceeded in convincing style to win the X.S.W. close and professional championships. , He came to Melbourne as one of the favourites for the 1933 open, but failed again, this time possibly as a result of a rather casual attitude towards, his shot making. Some think Sam is slightly on the careless side and, that while lie is one of the most 'beautiful swingers seen in Australia, lacks the determination necessary in a real first-class star of the first magnitude. That possibly is not quite true. He does "lope" swingly along the fairways as if he was out on a hike, and he does go down into bunkers and hit the ball out almost before the onlooker has put his eyes on him. That is a mannerism and is bom of his remarkable confidence in his ability to do his job and do it quickly.