Overview
When his life came to a sudden and tragic end on October 25, 1999, Payne Stewart was at the top of his game on every level. In June of 1999, he enjoyed the signature triumph of his career and solidified himself as one of the exemplary personalities in his profession with a victory at the U.S. Open and a place on the coveted winning U.S. Ryder Cup team. However satisfying his professional accomplishments were, it was his personal triumphs that made him stand out.In this authorized biography of her husband. Tracey Stewart shares the story of Payne's early life, growing up in Springfield. Missouri, under the watchful and loving eye of his first golf coach, his father, Bill Stewart. Through his growing up years. Bill guided Payne's natural abilities and love for the game of golf, sharpening his skills and giving him the desire to win that would empower him to many victories later in life.
After a successful college career, but failing to qualify immediately for the PGA Tour, Payne joined the Asian Tour. However unexpected this route may have been to him, it was a turn of events that would change his life. During a stop in Malaysia for the Malaysian Open, Payne met Tracey. After a long-distance romance between the States and Australia, the two were married, and Payne, with Tracey's help and support, began to build his legendary PGA career.
Tracey recounts those early days on the PGA Tour, of Payne's decision to begin wearing his trade-mark "plus fours" and tam-o'-shanter, and the life and family they built together in Orlando, Florida. Through career ups and downs, she was Payne's constant support and companion -- his biggest fan.
The last several years of his life were marked by a renewed faith in God. Those closest to Stewart said his family and faith were what mattered most to him. At his funeral, Tracey described him as a devoted husband and father and a devout Christian.
"After 18 years of marriage, he was still the most beautiful man I had ever seen because of what he was on the inside."
Editorials
From Barnes & Noble
In October 1999, much-revered golfer Payne Stewart died in a tragic plane accident. This biography, penned by his wife of 18 years, presents the accomplishments of a world-class linksman, U.S. Ryder Cup captain, and sweet man. A tribute to a golfer, the sport he loved, and the faith that sustained him.Leigh Montgomery
This tender memoir will give readers a deeply personal view of the champion, as Tracey Stewart describes her late husband as a man of complexity and quality.—The Christian Science Monitor