A new Walrus: Kevin Stadler's Johnnie Walker victory easy to enjoy

Kevin Stadler’s victory at the Johnnie Walker Classic in Australia over the weekend was the type of victory it’s easy to enjoy.

A victory for the Baby Walrus? You have to love it.

First of all, it’s Craig Stadler’s kid. You have to like the Walrus and you have to love the fact that his kid has the same belt size.

Second, the victory not only gave the young Stadler the $490,000 victor’s check but it also earned him a two-year exemption from the Australasian, Asian and European Tours. Not too shabby for a guy who was prepared to grind away on the Nationwide Tour all year.

Next, he wasn’t even supposed to be there – he got a sponsor’s invitation to play. Oh yeah, he also celebrated his 26th birthday only a few days before the tournament began.

Finally, Stadler’s reaction to it all was priceless. It was as though he knew something really good had happened to his golf career, but he was still trying to get it all sorted out.

“Honestly, I’m kind of baffled by it. It was a great week,” said Kevin Stadler on Sunday. “(It’s) just a great stroke of luck that they let me into the event here. And I really wanted to come and get some golf under my belt and get used to the time and the weather and everything. It’s just worked out for the best.”

A fun victory for someone who seems to be a fun guy. The Walrus II may have some work to reach his father’s accomplishments, but so far, so good for the 250-pound Kevin Stadler, who should have some fun times in Europe this summer.

–WKW