Recalling Chi Chi Rodriguez

I believe it was in 1988, at a senior golf tournament, called the Commemorative, from which, I have such nice memories of Chi Chi Rodriguez, the talented, outgoing and charitable pro golfer, (can’t wait for golf is said as on ), who died last week at age 88.

My friend and one time CBS cameraman, Tony Ancona conducted the interview and few have ever come off, as lively and sincere, as Juan “Chi Chi” Rodriguez, in that interview.

He talked about playing all the times he was asked and colorfully and emphatically emphasized “practice, practice, practice,” when asked by Tony, how amateur or weekend golfers could improve on the course.

Most of all, I remember Mr. Rodriguez talking of what one leaves behind, what he gave back when that is asked, upon his death.

Now that it came, surely what Chi Chi left behind for all, especially those in his native Puerto Rico, is staggering.

Maybe he and Tony, another giving, good man are hitting some in a better place.

The great Chi Chi Rodriguez, pictured above.