Wave Maker

A lot of people don't get pro golf -- especially watching it on television.

They don't know what they're missing.

Because not only are "these guys good," they're also good. Good people, that is. Most of 'em, anyway.

Here's a fine example:

Having completed his second round at the CA Championship, Paul Goydos was basking in the less-stressful atmosphere of a World Golf Championship, which he was experiencing for the first time.

Goydos was there thanks to his win at the Sony Open in Hawaii in January. It was his second career win on the PGA Tour, but talk soon rolled around to Doral's 18th hole and other finishing holes, such as the one at St. Andrews.

"I've never played St. Andrews," said Goydos.

Eyebrows were raised, and a reporter suggested that if Goydos's PGA Tour were secure by October, which it should be, then maybe he would entertain thoughts of playing at St. Andrews in the Dunhill Links Championship. He liked the thought of that. "It's their version of the Pebble Beach [Pro-Am]," said Goydos.

When told he could perhaps even get an appearance fee, Goydos shook his head.

"I'm not into that," he said. "If somebody's willing to pay me to have me in their field, then I've got to think there's something wrong with the tournament."

Goydos gets it. Not that I begrudge, say, John Daly for his gluttonous pursuit of appearance fees -- he's got so many alimony checks to write, he needs everything he can get, and his actual play isn't going to win him enough to cover the nut.

But here's a guy who is willing to go compete for a prize, straight up, no guarantees. Passing up the easy money.

Wow, I hope that attitude wins him a few more tournaments.