RIP To the Bird Isi Gabsa Hit With A Golf Ball At U.S. Women's Open
German golfer Isi Gabsa hit a birdie on the 12th hole at the U.S. Women's Open on Thursday — a literal birdie.
Gabsa's score sat at 2-over par when she teed up for the ill-fated shot at the Lancester Country Club. The ball headed for the green, but when it landed, it struck an unfortunate bird, who happened to be relaxing on the course.
"On the list of bizarre things that we have seen on the 12th hole, this one is kinda sad, takes the cake," Brandel Chamblee said during Peacock/Golf Channel’s Golf Central Live broadcast. "Just a bird sitting on the green, minding its own business."
An official walked over to the green to check on the bird, which was lying motionless on the grass. He picked the poor thing up and carried it away. And while we didn't receive official confirmation of the bird's status, it's probably safe to assume he's a goner.
"Brutal," co-host Kira K. Dixon added. "That’s nothing you ever want to see on the golf course."
Ironically enough, Gabsa subsequently missed the birdie putt and finished the hole with a par. Her first round would conclude with a 3-over 73, putting her tied 67th after one round.
Isi Gabsa sent a bird to an early grave on Thursday.
(Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
We can add Gabsa's victim to the list of unlucky birds who met their untimely death at a sporting event.
The most famous, of course, happened in 2001 when then-Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Randy Johnson accidentally drilled a bird during a Spring Training game — killing the creature and dramatically sending white feathers exploding off its body.
"I’m sitting there waiting for it, and I’m expecting to catch the thing, and all you see is an explosion," catcher Rod Barajas said at the time. "It’s crazy. There’s still feathers down there."
Rest in peace, little birds.