Kevin Kenny

Golf's Forgotten Hero: The Life of John McDermott Kevin Kenny

The story of John McDermott is both tragic and heroic. As a 19 year old, in 1911 he became the first native born American to win the U. S. Open and he repeated this success the following year. He truly paved the way for Walter Hagen, Gene Sarazen, and the rest. And yet, a few years later he was institutionalized in a sanitarium where he would spend the rest of his days. In many ways he has become a forgotten figure in the rich history of American golf. For the first time, the life of John McDermott, both on and off the course, is chronicled in a detailed manner- from the caddie ranks, to U. S. Open Champion, to his mental health issues. His is a compelling story.