Jim Simons, as an amateur, came within three strokes of the U.S. Open Title in 1971. Jim's performance was arguably one of the finest by an amateur in the post-World War II era. Jim had a two-stroke lead heading into the final round, only to shoot a 6-over 76 and tie for fifth, three shots behing Jack Nicklaus and Lee Travino.Jim died on 8 December. He was 55. From Butler we send condolences to his three sons, his mother and father as well as his three sisters.
† 8 December 2005
2 comments:
Jimmy was a great young man, spectacular scholastic and collegiate golfer at Wake Forest. The last amateur to be leading the open going into the final round. He lifted weights years before most coaches understood the value of lifting weights. Hairy forearms to rival Popeye's. Able to maintain some semblance of normalcy when his extraordinary achievements would have led most of us to the land of swelled noggins. He had a helluva set shot, too. Nurtured on rainy days and late nites in the Simons barn.
Jim's adult life was a Shakespearean tragedy, it seems. Not the way it was supposed to be. He merited better. RIP, Jimmy, old friend. We were all so proud of your mighty accomplishments and the nice way you carried it off.
I played golf at Hershey Country Club behind Jim Simons-After hitting a ball about 325 and almost hitting Jim- I was scared when I approached him- he said- wow-what a drive i heit and shook my hand
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