On Friday, July 15th 2005, at the 134th British Open Championship, legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus played his last round of major golf championships. Other greats like John Wayne road off into the sunset. However, golfers hope to fly off into the sunset with perhaps an eagle or birdie. On the 18th hole at The Old Course at St. Andrews in Fife, Scotland, Jack Nicklaus did just that.

The guy, who helped write the book on golf over the past 43 years, sunk a twelve-foot birdie putt, and then the floodgates opened up.

Today's TNT announcer said it best, "There isn't a dry eye in the country."

Tom Watson & Jack Nicklaus, 7.15.05 Reuters Photo Credit: Jeff J. Mitchell

As Nicklaus sank his birdie putt, the TNT announcer cheered:

What a way to call it a career.

He began the week and ended the week with courage.

Classic.

Timeless.

Unforgettable!

I'm not sure who was more teary-eyed, Nicklaus, Nicklaus' playing partner, fellow golf legend, Tom Watson or Nicklaus' son, Steve, who caddied for his dad both days.

Watson was by Nicklaus' side to congratulate him on his last round. Nicklaus' wife, Barbara, Jack Jr. and other family members were on the edge of the course to greet him as the 65-year-old, three-time British Open champion said farewell to a lifetime of major golf championships.

In 1962, Nicklaus made his Open debut at Royal Troon and then went on to win a record 18 major titles.

Nicklaus's final tournament was the 162nd major he appeared in since first competing in the U.S. Open as an amateur in 1957.

Nicklaus received a standing ovation from all those present in Scotland who came out to watch the master birdie his final championship hole.

All of us at home who tuned into TNT from around the world were also cheering him on.

The scoreboard was not the focus of attention upon Nicklaus' last stroke of the ball. His even-par 72 left him with a 3-over 147 for the two rounds, not good enough to make the cut. But his presence was good enough to draw one of the biggest crowds ever at St. Andrews.

After his round, Nicklaus said:

That's the lowest round I've shot this year.

I haven't shot par all year...

To shoot 72, to finish up with making birdie on the last hole at The Old Course, that's pretty special.

What a way to go out!

Thank you "Golden Bear" for making golf so entertaining to watch, and inspiring to play.

To learn more about Jack Nicklaus, Nicklaus Design & the Nicklaus Companies go to:

Inspire & Be Inspired.

Here's to healthy, adventuresome, soulful, "masterfully inspirational" living!

~ Jennifer Carolyn King, Rugged Elegance, LLC