S12, Ep 37 Part 1: Golden Age Greatness: Bruce Devlin’s Victories & Ron Sirak’s Game-Changing Journalism

On this episode of Next on the Tee, I’m blessed to be joined by four wonderful friends from different corners of the golf world. In part 1, we start with a true legend of the game — Bruce Devlin. One of Australia’s all-time greats, Bruce won the 1959 Australian Amateur, enjoyed a stellar career during golf’s golden age, and later became an acclaimed broadcaster and course designer. We start out talking about his battles at Oakmont in the 1962, '73, and '83 US Opens. We then hear about his victory at the 1972 Houston Open. From there, we transition to his memories of leading the 1982 U.S. Open through 36 holes, competing against Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus at Pebble Beach, and sealing a dramatic victory at the 1983 New Zealand Open by birdying the 72nd hole. We also talk about his outstanding run in the broadcast booth during the ’80s and ’90s — and the surprising fact that aspiring broadcasters have never sought his advice, which blew me away. Next, I’m joined by the incomparable Ron Sirak, whose writing forever changed golf journalism. I simply don't understand how he's not in the World Golf Hall of Fame for his many contributions to the game over the years. A proud fellow Yinzer, Ron has been honored with the PGA of America’s Lifetime Achievement Award and lauded by the Associated Press for elevating their coverage of the game. We revisit Oakmont’s storied place in U.S. Open history, reflect on his Western Pennsylvania roots, and hear about the resilience of the community as the steel mills closed. Ron also shines a light on one of the greatest — yet least celebrated — female amateurs in golf history. His storytelling is as powerful as his reporting, and I think you’ll enjoy every moment.