Nantz on his experiences at the Canadian Open, his backyard Par 3, Golf Canada and more!

OverDrive16mJune 11, 2026
AI-Generated Summary

Jim Nance reveals the spontaneous origin of his iconic call 'Glorious and Free' during Nick Taylor's 72-foot putt at the RBC Canadian Open—a moment that became a cultural touchstone, even earning a place on Taylor's driver head cover. Nance shares how the phrase emerged from a blend of national pride, emotional resonance, and the unique atmosphere of the tournament, where Canadian fans' anthem became an anthem of triumph. Beyond the spotlight, he opens up about his backyard par 3 in Nashville, a private golf sanctuary that has hosted legends from Jack Nicklaus to Patrick Mahomes, all drawn by the chance to hit one shot on his course. The story of a LSU golfer who made a hole-in-one on his first swing—exactly as promised—becomes a testament to the magic of golf and generosity. Nance also reflects on the deep personal significance of working alongside Jack Nicklaus, admitting he still feels intimidated by his boyhood idol. From the emotional weight of a fallen colleague to the joy of mentoring youth through First Tee, Nance’s journey is one of legacy, connection, and the quiet joy found in the game’s most unexpected moments.

Key Takeaways
1

The phrase 'Glorious and Free' was spontaneous, born from national pride and emotional release during Nick Taylor's 72-foot putt at the Canadian Open.

2

Nance’s Nashville backyard par 3 has hosted Jack Nicklaus, Patrick Mahomes, Phil Mickelson, and even a LSU golfer who made a hole-in-one on his first swing.

3

Jack Nicklaus spent three hours with Nance at the Memorial Tournament—Nance admitted he was still intimidated by his boyhood idol after decades.

4

First Tee is not about producing future pros but teaching core values like integrity, perseverance, and respect through golf.

5

Nance prepares for tournaments by researching players’ tendencies and crafting unique storylines, especially for weekend leaders.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
2 min

Jim Nance on His Canadian Open Experience

I said it glorious and free, and I thought, well, wait a minute. Was that okay to say that?

Highlight
2:27
3 min

The Origin of 'Glorious and Free'

I heard, you know, not that I don't know the lyrics already, but I just kept hearing it and admiring it, and I think it was just ingrained in my head.

Highlight
5:06
3 min

Backyard Par 3: A Golfer’s Sanctuary

He stood over the shot and he knocked it in the hole. No way. Come on. He did.

Highlight
8:19
3 min

Legends on the Tee: From Nicklaus to Mahomes

Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer. Incredible. Again, I know name-dropping is... We love it. We appreciate it greatly.

Highlight
11:23
3 min

Mentorship and Legacy in Golf

Nance discusses his role with First Tee, emphasizing values over talent, and his deep friendship with Warren Sy, a fellow Houston alum.

High-Impact Quotes
Man, I am so intimidated being around you. You're Jack Nicklaus.
Jim Nance6:09
And he stood over the shot and he knocked it in the hole. No way. Come on. He did.
Jim Nance8:33
But when it did, it washed over me, and I said it glorious and free, and I thought, well, wait a minute. Was that okay to say that?
Jim Nance1:46

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