National Links Trust (NLT) is thrilled to share some exciting news with all of their valued customers and supporters! The NLT’s second food truck, which is proudly located at the historic Langston Golf Course, will soon be given a special name – “Elder’s Eats” – in honor of the legendary Black golf pioneer, Lee Elder. This is a significant moment for the golf course as they pay tribute to an iconic figure in the golfing community and celebrate his legacy.
Lee Elder is widely recognized as a trailblazer in the world of golf. Born on July 14, 1934, in Dallas, Texas, Elder has had a remarkable career that has left an indelible mark on the sport. He turned professional in 1959 and went on to become the first African American to qualify for the Masters Tournament in 1975. This groundbreaking achievement shattered racial barriers in golf, and Elder’s trailblazing efforts paved the way for future generations of Black golfers.
In addition to his historic achievement at the Masters, Elder also had a successful professional golf career. He competed in numerous PGA Tour events and won four times on the PGA Tour Champions, formerly known as the Senior PGA Tour. He also played internationally in various tournaments, showcasing his exceptional talent and skill as a golfer.
Elder’s contributions to the sport of golf go beyond his achievements on the course. He has been an advocate for diversity and inclusion in golf, working tirelessly to promote opportunities for minority golfers and break down barriers of discrimination in the sport. Elder’s unwavering commitment to advancing diversity in golf has earned him widespread recognition and respect, and he continues to be an inspiration to golfers of all backgrounds.
As NLT pays tribute to Lee Elder, they are grateful to have the support of the Elder family in this endeavor, saying through their online news, “We’d like to thank the Elder family for their partnership in this endeavor, and we eagerly look forward to the truck’s grand opening with its new design in the coming months.Their partnership has been invaluable, and we are honored to have their blessing in naming our food truck “Elder’s Eats.” The food truck will be adorned with a new design that reflects Elder’s legacy and impact on the sport of golf, and we eagerly anticipate its grand opening in the coming months.”
The location of our food truck is also significant as it is situated at the historic Langston Golf Course. Located in Washington, D.C., Langston Golf Course is a historic landmark that has played a significant role in promoting golf in the African American community. Established in 1939, Langston Golf Course was the first public golf course in the United States that welcomed Black golfers, providing them with a space to play the sport during a time of segregation.