How a handwritten note helped Phil Mickelson find caddie Jim Mackay

Phil Mickelson and Jim Mackay have been a team for a long time, dating back to 1992. However, Mackay got the job by telling Mickelson’s Arizona State golf coach Steve Loy who else should get the job.

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Loy approached Mackay at a Tour stop that year, soliciting some names Mickelson could contact to become his full-time looper. That conversation was cut short, as the New York Times shared, when Mackay’s then-boss had arrived, ready to get to work. Mackay sent a note to Loy shortly thereafter, apologizing for having to leave and making himself available for further conversation.

Well, that next conversation turned into a job offer from Mickelson, who saw Mackay’s note and was impressed. Mickelson hired Mackay in time for his professional PGA Tour debut at the 1992 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach.

Their partnership has led to 41 PGA Tour wins, including five major titles.

Ryan Ballengee is a Yahoo Sports contributor. Find him on Facebook and Twitter.

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