Young Nam might not be a recognizable golfer by any means, at least not by Singapore standards. In the world of the Tiger, Mickelson, El Nino, and AK, someone like Young Nam might slip through the cracks of awareness. But in my eyes, he is as heroic as any golfer that has walked the fairways of history.

His battle has not been with other golfers, nor any golf course for that matter. For Young Nam, it was a fight against fate itself.

Several years ago, the Korean American pro was diagnosed with spinal meningitis, a life-threatening illness that is rare among adults. The doctors said that he had a 50/50 chance. What they meant was that he had a 50% chance of losing his memory, and a 50% chance of surviving.  You can just imagine that at the time, golf must have been the last thing on his mind.

But seeing him hit the ball at this week's Barclays Singapore Open Pro Am, where he was the designated pro on our SPH Magazines flight, it is difficult to believe that just four years ago, Young could barely break 90, let alone make any inroads to his golf career. His effortless swing launches the ball high into the air, and his irons are crisp and straight. He is currently toying with several putters, showing (on the bright side) that he is constantly tinkering with his game in order to improve. 

Surviving his illness must have did something positive for Young Nam. Since he's returned to the professional game, he's won three times. Trying to hit the fairway or sink a putt must pale in comparison with fighting for his life. Back playing the game he loves, winning is just one silver lining in his world these days. Just waking up to see the day must feel like victory already.