The Charlie Sifford Foundation is dedicated to continuing the legacy of Charlie Sifford, the first African American to break the PGA Tour’s color barrier. The foundation focuses on increasing diversity in golf by providing scholarships, access to resources, and opportunities for young minority golfers.
Born in 1922 in North Carolina, Sifford grew up caddying and teaching himself the game. Despite racial barriers, he excelled and won multiple tournaments in segregated golf leagues. In 1961, after years of struggle, he became the first Black golfer to earn a PGA Tour card. He went on to win the Greater Hartford Open (1967) and the Los Angeles Open (1969), proving his skill despite facing discrimination.
Sifford’s perseverance inspired future generations, including Tiger Woods, who called him a pioneer. In 2004, he was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame, and in 2014, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama.
Reflecting on his journey, Sifford once said: “I wasn’t just trying to do this for me, I was trying to do it for the world.”
How to Reach the Charlie Sifford Foundation
For more information, donations, or support, you can visit the foundation’s website at https://siffordscholars.com or contact them through their official social media channels. Sifford’s story remains one of resilience, proving that golf—and all sports—should be open to everyone .
