AUGUSTA, Ga. — Masters week in Augusta is typically a lively time, and Paul Pearman, a 64-year-old Augusta resident, is accustomed to it.
Pearman, an artist with a museum-like home on Lake Olmstead, is often involved in the festivities. He`s knowledgeable about local Augusta National history and, being a keen golfer, has built an impressive, well-lit putting green in his backyard.
The bright lights of this green caught the attention of a top golfer.
One Friday night, Pearman turned on the green`s lights and noticed a group approaching. They stopped, noticing the illuminated green, and walked towards Pearman`s house.
`Do you guys play golf?` Pearman asked.
`Hi, I`m Bryson DeChambeau,` one of them replied from the dimly lit driveway.
Pearman jokingly responded, `Nice to meet you, I`m Jack Nicklaus.`
When DeChambeau stepped into the light, Pearman realized it was indeed him. `Oh,` Pearman admitted, `I`m not really Jack Nicklaus.`
DeChambeau, who scored a 69 on Saturday, placing him in the final group with Rory McIlroy, is just two strokes behind and aiming for his third major title and first green jacket. His wedge play has been exceptional, leading the field in strokes gained around the green. This might be partly due to his unexpected practice session in an Augusta backyard the night before a crucial round.
At Pearman`s home, DeChambeau practiced with his 72-degree wedges under the night sky.
`It looked like a blimp was dropping golf balls onto the flags,` Pearman described.
DeChambeau also used Pearman`s `Liberace putter,` a unique putter made of clear Lucite.
`Like those novelty items with a scorpion inside,` Pearman joked.
Pearman excitedly told his wife, Michele, to get out of her pajamas, exclaiming, `Get up! Bryson`s in the backyard.`
Michele was initially skeptical, but upon meeting DeChambeau, she was charmed by his politeness, especially towards their Rottweiler, Rosie. `He was so sweet,` she said. `He introduced himself, shook my hand, and was very friendly with Rosie.`
DeChambeau is known for his dedication to golf, often practicing extensively after rounds and using technology to analyze his game. He also runs a YouTube channel and is known for his unconventional approaches to improving his play.
This includes practicing his short game with a collection of older clubs at a backyard putting green.
Pearman was surprised to find DeChambeau in his backyard late at night, discovering the green by chance when he couldn`t sleep. `I don`t blame you,` Pearman said, understanding the pressure of the tournament.
Pearman himself is known for his diverse interests. He once held a Guinness World Record for skateboard jumping, is a martial artist, and creates art, including custom belt buckles worn by musicians and celebrities.
Golfer Rory Sabbatini and Augusta National marker Jeff Knox have worn Pearman`s buckles.
Pearman`s backyard putting green is far from ordinary. Measuring 71 by 41 feet, it features a sophisticated drainage system and varied undulations designed to keep practice interesting, which DeChambeau appreciated.
`This is really cool,` DeChambeau commented, noting the green`s unique design.
Pearman admires DeChambeau`s dedication to improving his game and witnessed firsthand his commitment, even practicing in a stranger`s backyard the night before a critical Masters round.
It seems this impromptu practice might have paid off.
The next day, Pearman and friends watched DeChambeau make a long birdie putt, and later, even more gathered to witness DeChambeau`s strong finish, securing his place in the final group for Sunday.
`I might cry if Bryson doesn`t win tomorrow,` Michele admitted, showing her newfound support.
Pearman noted the abundance of four-leaf clovers in his yard, suggesting a lucky atmosphere. `It`s just lucky out here, man,` he said. `Obviously, one lesson is all it took.`
After his successful Saturday round and the unusual Friday night practice, DeChambeau explained his approach to avoiding burnout: `Definitely the most important thing is going back and relaxing and having a fun, enjoyable night,` he said. `Hanging out with my friends and family, and just being myself. … The more I can just be myself, the longer I can go.`
