August 13, 2021 | BY AAGD STAFF
When you watch the annual Masters tournament the view is spectacular and the voice behind all of those beautiful scenes is that of Jim Nantz. In his three-decade run as CBS’ voice of the Masters, Nantz finally got the opportunity to visit East Canton, Ohio and the historic Clearview Golf Course, a destination he’s had on his golf bucket list for a while.
On Monday, August 9, Nantz hosted a “Celebration of Clearview With Jim Nantz” and the course was filled with players and spectators who arrived for a memorable day recognizing the course’s 75 years of existence.
Why was Clearview on his bucket list?
Nantz knew the late Bill Powell, who 75 years ago became the first Black man to open a golf course he had designed and built when he opened Clearview.
“I was in attendance when Bill won the PGA’s highest honor, the Distinguished Service Award,” Nantz said during his visit Monday. “I was always aware of the history of Clearview.
“I met Renee (Powell) a number of times through the years. I always admired her so much. We ran into each other this year. It might have been opening day of the Masters.
“With my in-laws in Cleveland, I seem to be spending more time here lately. I told Renee I’d really like to come see Clearview.” Nantz is a seasoned broadcaster who has called play-by-play for Super Bowls and championship games from basketball’s March Madness. He’s also the former college roomate of Fred Couples, who would win a Masters. An iconic sports announcer, this past January Nantz and Tony Romo handled the Browns-Chiefs playoff game and will double back for the Browns-Chiefs opener next month.
75 Years of History at Clearview Golf Club
Clearview is a National Historic Site and Renee Powell is owner and Head Golf Pro, Powell, whose father William Powell built the course in 1949, today operates the corse along with the Clearview Legacy Foundation whose missions include preserving the course, education, and golf outreach to military veterans, youth and others.
“I told Renee, ‘I don’t want to be presumptuous. It might not help you at all. But if I could show up and we could throw an event … it’s Clearview’s 75th year … I’d like to be a part of it,'” Nantz said. The party was a glorious one and Clearview and guests enjoyed the day.
