"Hooked on Autographs"

by Joe Galiardi
(Cupertino, CA USA)

I recently wrote a book about my fascinating hobby of collecting celebrity autographs on golf balls. I claim to have one of the largest and most diversified collections of signed balls in America. Beginning with how I became a collector at age 7, in sixteen spirited chapters, I share my favorite stories in my hobby memoir "Hooked on Autographs," by Joe Galiardi available at Amazon.com. Here's one of my favorite tales as told in Chapter 2 titled "Chi Chi."

When I decided to add Chi Chi Rodriquez's autograph to my golf ball collection, my opportunity arose when the seniors returned to "Tuscany in California" Napa, for the fall Transamerica Seniors Championship at Silverado Country Club. I waited purposely for Chi Chi to finish his round on the 18th green of the South Course. After putting out, Chi Chi began walking down the path toward the clubhouse, and was mobbed by autographs hounds, including myself. It was a warm October day, and Chi Chi responded, "It's too hot here; let's go down to that large tree where there's shade."

All autograph seekers quickly bolted for the tree with me running faster than a bullet to get there and be first in line to get Chi Chi's sought-after signature on a golf ball. As I handed the ball to Chi Chi to sign, he said, "Children first." Knowing how much Chi Chi loves kids, I wasn't surprised by this gesture. Three or four children came forward, and after Chi Chi signed the last item, I knew I was next because I made sure not to lose my place in line. As I handed Chi Chi the ball for the second time, he said, "Women next." I had no problem with the few women autograph seekers in the crowd going before me, as I was brought up to believe in the adage, "Ladies before gentlemen." After Chi Chi signed the last woman's hat, it finally came time for my Chi Chi Rodriquez autograph.

As I handed the ball to Chi Chi for the third time to sign, he looked straight into my eyes and jokingly said, "Mexicans next." My eyeballs almost popped out from laughing so hard. Chi Chi also cracked up. I finally got my patiently awaited autograph from the crowd pleaser and one of the golf legends of all time -- Chi Chi Rodriquez.