Book excerpt: For 23 years, Ron Read witnessed the toughest shot in golf...the opening drive from the #1 tee of the United States Open Championship. The US Open ranks with the World Series, the Super Bowl, and Wimbledon for its prestige and meaning to its respective sport. Throughout his celebrated career, Ron formed many lasting relationships with golfers, caddies, sportscasters and writers, course superintendents, and many others. Ron takes us inside the ropes, through the clubhouse, into the inner sanctum, and tells the stories revealing what has made this tournament and this sport, truly special. Starting the US Open is much more than a "read;" it's an experience!