For anyone who follows Canadian golf history—or loves a good underdog story—there’s a book worth checking out. Olympic Lyon: The Untold Story of the Last Gold Medal for Golf dives into a forgotten chapter of the sport, and it’s written by someone who knows his way around both the law and a fairway.
Michael Cochrane, a Toronto lawyer and partner at Brauti Thorning LLP, took on the task of piecing together the life of George Lyon. This name should be legendary, but it somehow faded from history. Lyon, a Canadian, pulled off an improbable victory at the 1904 Olympic Games, bringing home a gold medal in golf—a feat that wouldn’t be repeated for over a century.
New Book About Golf
Lyon’s story isn’t just about the win—it’s about how he got there. He didn’t touch a golf club until his late 30s. Before that, he dominated gymnastics and cricket. Yet, within a few years, he rose to the top of Canadian golf, competing against the best players of his time.
His Olympic run played out like a movie. He battled rough weather, challenging opponents, and the overwhelming odds against him. No one expected a man his age, new to the sport, to win—but he did.
For lawyers who love golf (and plenty do), Cochrane’s book delivers more than a sports biography. It dives into resilience, strategy, and playing the long game. Lyon never let age, inexperience, or outside expectations hold him back.
If you enjoy golf, Canadian history, or a great underdog story, this book belongs on your list. Let us know what you think.
