How Mickelson’s Caddie Became ‘Bones’

Day 194 without playing golf

A Golf World story published in March tells how Phil Mickelson’s caddie Jim Mackay got the nickname “Bones.”

While in Paris working for Larry Mize, Mackay went to a group dinner. It was 1990.

“Back then, I was thin. Really thin, maybe 150,” Mackay told the magazine. “Freddie (Couples) wanted me to pass the salt or something, but he didn’t know who I was. So he just called out ‘Bones.’ It stuck. Did it ever stick.”

If there’s a guy on Tour who likes caddying better, I don’t know who it would be.

But then toting Phil’s sticks isn’t such a bad gig. I’m sure many of us would gladly trade places with Bones, if only for a season.

The Armchair Golfer