The Essential Role of a PGA Pro Golf Caddy

The primary responsibility of a Professional Golfers Association (PGA) caddy is to assist the golfer, often by carrying their golf bag, a critical task which involves more than just physical labor. This role also encompasses providing insights, evaluating putt breaks, and ensuring the accuracy of distances marked on the course.

Carrying the Golf Bag

The physical responsibility of a caddy is to carry the golf bag, which includes a variety of clubs. However, this task extends beyond simple transportation. Caddies must provide the golfer with the club they request, and once the shot is taken, they must promptly return the entire set to the bag. This can be a challenging responsibility as it requires attention to detail and a good understanding of the game.

Providing Insights and Support

Another major role of a caddy is to offer opinions and advice to the golfer. For instance, some players need guidance on yardages, wind conditions, landing areas, and the way putts break. Caddies must be knowledgeable about the course and be able to analyze the game in real-time. In some cases, such as during the Australian Open, the caddy might need to manage additional responsibilities, such as dealing with lost or misidentified golf bags.

A Real-Life Caddy's Experience

In one memorable experience, the author of this document caddied for his girlfriend, Suwannapura, during the Australian Open on the LPGA Tour. A misadventure occurred when the caddy forgot to claim the golf bag in customs, a situation that could have derailed both of their tournaments. Such incidents underscore the high stakes and pressures involved in this profession.

Shutting Up and Focusing

While offering guidance and advice is important, caddies must also be careful not to disrupt a player's flow. In competitive tournaments, the primary responsibility is to remain in the background, providing support only when necessary. It's a delicate balance, as excessive chatter can derail even the best players. For example, during a tournament in Dubai, the author mistakenly advised his girlfriend that a putt would break left when it actually broke right, costing her a significant opportunity.

Exceptional Moments with World-Class Players

Interactions with top-tier players can be particularly exciting. The author recalls a situation where his ex-partner, during a particularly focused round, wanted to know the precise yardage with millimeter accuracy. Both he and his partner meticulously calculated the distance, and their agreement highlighted the high level of precision and skill involved in the game. These moments of precision are rare and make the role of a caddy even more valuable.

The Rewards and Challenges

Despite the challenges, the role of a caddy can be rewarding. A caddy who performs exceptionally well may see their player shoot impressive scores, and the player often takes the credit. Conversely, a single mistake can have significant consequences, as the author learned when he inadvertently cost his partner tens of thousands of dollars.

In the off-hours, a caddy might also enjoy a celebratory drink after a successful tournament or top ten finish. Such moments, while brief, highlight the camaraderie and shared joy of the profession.

Anecdotal Moments

The job of a caddy is multifaceted, and there are countless memorable moments, such as being the first person bitten by a camel during a tournament, an experience that both humorously and literally puts the caddy at the center of attention.

The role of a PGA caddy is not just about carrying bags and giving advice. It's about understanding the game, supporting players, and dealing with the pressures and joys of the professional golf circuit. It is a role that requires skill, knowledge, and a touch of humor.