To the editor: I’ve by no means written to the L.A. Occasions earlier than. However after the passing of Fernando Valenzuela, I felt compelled to share a couple of ideas about one of many nicest individuals I ever met. (“Why Fernando Valenzuela’s magic should ensure him a spot in the Hall of Fame,” column, Oct. 23)
Together with numerous different golfers who referred to as the Montebello Golf Course residence, I had the distinct pleasure of attending to know Fernando — the particular person, not the superstar. For greater than 20 years he was a member of our males’s membership.
He didn’t care that it was a public golf course. Whereas most professional athletes be a part of unique personal golf equipment, Fernando — or Freddie, as we referred to as him — was extra comfy enjoying with the typical Joe. He handled all of the golfers as in the event that they have been lifelong associates.
I used to be fortunate sufficient to get in a couple of rounds with Freddie over time. He was enjoyable to play with, at all times joking and never afraid to win a couple of bets.
And boy, might he play. He routinely shot beneath par and hit the ball a mile. Though he performed left-handed, he would often exhibit and borrow a right-handed driver, stripe it down the center then supply up slightly smile.
Through the years Freddie performed in tons of of charitable golf occasions. He would at all times present signed balls, bats, jerseys, images and different gadgets to assist increase cash for worthwhile causes. And he by no means anticipated something in return. He was as real as they got here.
We, the Montebello golf group, will at all times cherish the standard time we had with this lovely man. And I’m positive Freddie would’ve felt the identical means about us.
Brian Bart, Lengthy Seashore
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To the editor: The magnitude of “Fernandomania” is so immense that lifelong Dodger followers who had the nice fortune of personally experiencing that phenomenon innately affiliate the 12 months 1981 with that — probably much more so than vanquishing the hated Yankees to cap off that really unforgettable season.
And for one of many only a few perpetually true-blue Dodgers to depart us as our group meets these Yankees once more within the World Collection — for the primary time since that indelible season — couldn’t be extra poignant.
It’s so simple to think about Tommy Lasorda working out from the dugout of Blue Heaven to heartily embrace Fernando, simply as he did so many occasions in 1981.
Jin Choi, La Crescenta
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To the editor: As for the Dodgers’ lack of sophistication of their remedy of Fernando after his prime as a pitcher, we should do not forget that the Dodgers are a company, and firms often don’t have a coronary heart, they’ve a backside line. That’s simply the best way issues are.
So, columnist Gustavo Arellano hit the nail straight on the top when he wrote, “The what-could’ve-been shrinks within the shadow of what was: an encounter with the divine.”
Folks and companies are fallible; we have now to confess it and transfer on in our lives. However the reminiscence of Fernando and his spirit and revolution won’t ever be forgotten. He’s perpetually tattooed on the psyche of these of us who lived throughout his reign with the Dodgers.
Thanks, Fernando Valenzuela, for all of the recollections.
Chet Chebegia, San Marcos
