Feature by Anand Datla
February 10, 2015: The “Great White Shark” turns 60 today. Greg Norman, the man that dominated golf in the 80s and 90s turns another leaf in his life, looking ahead with the same enthusiasm and vigour that characterised his golf during the prime of his career. Norman has recovered from the chainsaw incident that nearly threatened to severe his arm last year and looking ahead to a long life filled with health, success and some more golf.
Away from the brilliant career, which included an imposing 331 weeks at the top of the golf rankings, Norman has built a mighty empire that deals with real estate, golf course design, clothing and accessories, even wine. The Great White Shark Enterprises is a global enterprise with interests spread across multiple continents.
“I’m the fittest I’ve ever been as I approach 60, which seems to be a strange statement to make, but I’ve worked out extremely hard since 1991,” Norman told the USA Today. “I can play two hours of tennis like I did yesterday and go to the gym for two hours. I’ll do that three to four days a week. My genes are very, very good. When I look at 60, I feel 45.”
In an interview ahead of his birthday, Norman spoke about life, passion for golf and his keen interest in the growth of the business. “At our business review, I presented a strategic plan to my staff and executive team, and I told them, I truly believe the company has only achieved 20% of its potential,” said an ambitious Norman. “I sit back and see what the company can be like in perpetuity when I have daisies growing on top of me. It’s such a fulfilling mental place to be in. There are so many opportunities. The future is there because of the way I have established the company today.”
“Turning 60 will be the first tee shot on the back nine of my life,” he added. “I’ve always lived to seize the moment, to squeeze every drop of expectation out of myself for whatever that moment gives you,” Norman added. “In my mind, what’s done is done, and everything you can do from this moment on is up to you. I never really cried over spilled milk. If I have surgery, I look forward to coming back stronger. I’ve always been forward thinking.”
That is as good a summary one might write on the eternal optimist that resides inside the imposing man. Golf fans will enjoy Norman’s wisdom as he embarks this year on a multi-year contract with Fox Sports as a key member of their broadcast team.
Source of Quotes: USA Today
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