“…this is the first time that I have ever
been on the cover of a golf magazine. –Charlie Sifford”
African American Golfer’s Digest Publishes
Charlie Sifford Tribute Issue
Special Edition Commemorates Historic
Hall Of Fame Induction
of Legendary African American Golfer
New York, N.Y. (December 1, 2004)–A special, tribute issue of theAfrican American Golfer’s Digest is published for its Winter 2004 edition to commemorate the historic World Golf Hall of Fame Induction of legendary golfer, Charlie Sifford.
The issue compiles highlights from the November 15th induction ceremony that was held in St. Augustine, Florida and a full printed version of Sifford’s acceptance speech.
Powerful editorial outlines Sifford’s successful golf career, displays photos of his trophy case at the World Golf Hall of Fame and a special interview with the legend along with spotlights and a photo gallery from the celebration breakfast are also included.
In 1961 Siford broke through the color barrier and entered the Greater Greensboro Open as an official member of the PGA Tour. In 1967 he won the Greater Hartford Open and become the first African American winner on the PGA Tour. He has also been chosen to represent the African American Golfers Digest as its World Golf Ambassador.
According to the Publisher, Debert Cook, “Charlie gave me a call and said how much he appreciated me and all that I was going with the publication, and then, he told me something that I could not believe–“I want you to know that this is the first time I have EVER been on the cover of a golf magazine,” he said. “After all of his contributions, wins, triumphs and more, I found this very difficult to believe,” said Cook.
Born on June 2, 1922 In Charlotte, NC, Sifford like many black golfers from that era, learned the game as a caddie. “Caddying was the way you learned how to play back then. Most people think that all the caddies were black, but whites used to caddy too”. Sifford earned about 50 cents a loop and used the money to help support his mother Eliza and his 5 siblings.
” Now, after a personal visit to his home, and meeting up with him at golf events, Charlie and I are very good friends; and he definitely speaks his mind at all times and does not hesitate to give me advice on both professional and personal matters. But, I just love him like an uncle,” said Cook. Sifford also serves on the publication Advisory Board and is its World Golf Ambassador.
