How a Mishap From Fred Couples Turned Into a Tradition That Lasted 22 Years

Joe LaCava is one of the most respected caddies in the golf world, having worked with some of the biggest names in the sport, including Tiger Woods and Fred Couples. LaCava has been on the bag for Couples for over two decades, and the two have formed a close bond over the years. But what is it about LaCava that has made him such a valuable asset to Couples off the course?

The player-caddie relationship is beyond professional horizons. With time, it became more of a personal bond than a professional deal. One thing that has always intrigued fans is why Cady Joe LaCava always drove Fred Couples to the golf course. Read further to learn the innate reason behind that.

Caddie Joe LaCava always drove Fred Couples to the golf course

The story dates back to when they did not share the player-caddie relationship with one another. Two months after discussing the possibility of working together, Couples called up Joe and asked him to meet at his home. They planned on going to Bermuda Dunes CC for a practise session, and it was only eight miles from Fred’s house. One would think of it as an easy commute for the golfer, but hilariously, that was not the case.

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According to an article by PGA tour, Fred told, “We get in my car; at the time I was with Cadillac, driving an Escalade, and I couldn’t find Bermuda Dunes.” Couples further told, “We’re driving around, and he’s sitting in the right-hand side, livid. ‘You live here, and you can’t find this damn course, and I don’t understand it.’”

On their way back after the practice session, Joe took away the car keys, changing their dynamic forever. Couples narrated, “He grabbed the keys out, he drove home, and he drove home every day for 22 years. I never drove my own car at another tournament, because of that mishap.” For over two decades, Joe took care of Couples and worked as a perfect sounding board for me. They had this synchronisation since the very beginning; they just clicked. Joe just knew what Couples wanted without having him say that.

Couples and LaCava: A Generational Partnership

Joe LaCava is currently caddying Tiger Woods, but that does not mean that Couples and LaCava’s player-caddie partnership is over. Joe’s son, Joe Jr., is now walking on the path carved by his father. Couples’ bag was carried last spring by Joe Jr., who has now decided to follow his father’s footsteps and become a caddie. As is said, “like father, like son,” Joe Jr. has completely taken over his father’s shoes and happily chauffeured Couples to the golf course last year. He even rented a car and drove him to last year’s Mitsubishi Electric Classic outside Atlanta.

Clearly, the moment Joe said, “I’m taking over,” every dynamic shaped between them. Couples found the partner he needed on and off the course, and Joe found the perfect player who has always treated him with the utmost respect.

What do you have to say about their relationship? Drop in your thoughts in our comment section below while we get you more insiders.

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