“It always amazed me that presidents of the United States would be giving these different awards to athletes for their athletic prowess, and here was a man that. His best finish at the Masters was a tie for 17th, also in 1979.īut Elder’s impact on the game went far beyond wins and losses, even if it took decades for his legacy to be fully appreciated. He played in all four major championships, tying for 11th at both the 1974 PGA Championship and the 1979 U.S. The highlight of his rookie year was a memorable loss to Nicklaus on the fifth hole of a sudden-death playoff at the American Golf Classic.Įlder would go on to capture four PGA Tour victories and eight more wins on the PGA Tour Champions for 50-and-over players. Finally, at the age of 33, Elder was able to afford PGA qualifying school, where he earned his first tour card for the 1968 season. He developed into one of the UGA’s best players, but meager prize money made it tough to earn a living. He was able to polish his game while serving in the Army and, after his discharge, joined the United Golf Association Tour for Black players in the early 1960s. His presence will be sorely missed, but his legacy will continue to be celebrated.”Įlder got into golf as a caddie, since that essentially was the only conduit Black people had to be permitted on the course. Lee will always be a part of the history of the Masters Tournament. 'Lee was an inspiration to so many young men and women of color not only through his play, but also through his commitment to education and community. “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Lee Elder,' Ridley said in a statement. “For me and my family, I think it was one of the most emotional experiences that I have ever witnessed or been involved in,” he said.įred Ridley, chairman of Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters, called Elder “a true pioneer in the game of golf.” Sign up for the HouWeAre newsletter here.Įlder was in poor health and unable to take a swing, but he held up his driver proudly at the first tee, clearly moved by the moment. We want to foster conversation and highlight the intersection of race, identity and culture in one of America's most diverse cities.

Charly mcclain on tour picture disc