SCOTTIE SCHEFFLER's remarkable rise to the top of the world -- and his Masters glory bid -- was inspired by a young victim of cancer.
James Ragan, 25, and Scheffler, 25 were best friends growing up. His pal, who was just 20, died from a rare bone cancer.
Scottie Scheffler, who recently claimed the No1 spot in the world, is now aiming to win The Masters.
James Ragan, just 20 years old, died from a rare form of bone cancer
They gathered at Augusta to celebrate Scheffler’s incredible leap -- from seeking a first PGA Tour victory to becoming the world’s number one golfer in 42 days.
Remember James.
Scheffler won three times in five of his last five starts, which was a remarkable feat. Scheffler's feat of matching the largest 36-hole lead in Masters history, five shots clear of the field at 8 under, should not be surprising.
However, golf was not in his plans when he met with the Ragans just before the tournament started. He had arranged tickets for them.
Mecklin James' sister said that it was an emotionally charged reunion. She recalled how Scottie and James had become so close while they were junior golfers.
She stated that James would be proud of him, but that he'd also be saying "Yep, about Time, Scottie. What took you so much?"
They met by playing golf. Scottie was recognized as an outstanding junior, and James got down and dirty despite his illness. They played together in events.
"He was two-years older than Scottie, but they quickly got along and became very close.
"I can recall a time when they teamed up and won the prestigious adults event at a top club. James was not going to let the disease spoil their fun. They were just children having a good time.
He would wear a chemo belt around his waist and have a needle in his leg.
"He got all he could out it, but Scottie was in a different class than everyone else.
James was a promising tennis player, before he was diagnosed as having osteosarcoma. This is a rare bone cancer. He was only 13.
He was able to start chemotherapy, underwent operations to save his leg, and received a replacement metal knee.
James was able to buy himself some time, and he eventually found golf. He also met Scottie.
James loved Scottie because he saw someone younger than him who had an amazing talent and wasn't wasting his talent.
James would tell me that he only had so many years, months, or days to live. I try to make the best of my time. People all around me waste the gifts they have been given. Scottie is different. He is really going places.
Scottie doesn't need me to say anything, but I think James had a positive influence on Scottie. James was a great friend to everyone he met. He was an inspiration."
Scott Scheffler, Scheffler's father, confirmed Scheffler was a strong young man.
Scott said, "There is no doubt that James had a profound influence on Scottie.
He said that while you must give it all you have, it is still a game.
"If you have tried your best, that's all you need to do. You cannot control some things.
Scheffler is deeply religious. He rarely speaks about his life outside of the golf course.
He has also helped raise more than PS3million to support the charity Triumph over Kid Cancer, which was established to honor James.
He was present when the charity was founded, just eight years before his friend's death.
He wept and said, "This foundation won't save James’ life but it will save many others."
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"I thought about James out there. He had been texting me all week, and he said it was never over until it is.
Scheffler's mantra has served him well, and he is able to deal with whatever life throws at him.
After the second round at Augusta, the American lead by five strokes
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