“…They don’t want us there. He saw us and they didn’t want us on the course. We were the only ones out there who looked like us. We were demeaned, we were berated, we were marginalized.”
(April 26, 2018) YORK, Pa. — After five African American women said they endured race and gender discrimination at a Pennsylvania golf club, a state lawmaker wants an investigation into the case.
Sen. Vincent J. Hughes, (D-Pa.)
In a Wednesday (April 25) letter, state Sen. Vincent J. Hughes, a Democrat representing Philadelphia and Montgomery County, Pa., made the request to M. Joel Bolstein, interim chair of the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission, into what he called “a troubling and disturbing incident.”
APPALLED AT THE SITUATION
“I’m just so damned frustrated,” Hughes wrote on his website. “We have to deal with situations like this too frequently. This time, police determined it was not a matter they should have been involved in, but it is appalling that someone would call the police for a non-violent incident where the only crime was being black on a public golf course.”
The five women, Sandra Thompson, 50; Myneca Ojo, 56; sisters Sandra Harrison, 59, and Carolyn Dow, 56, and Karen Crosby, 58, initially were told Saturday on the second hole at Grandview Golf Club in Dover, Pa., they were not keeping the pace of play by former York County Commissioner Steve Chronister, who told them he was the club’s owner, they said. The women say no one else at the club was treated the way they were.
RELATED ARTICLE: Golfers Opposing Bigotry
Later, the women were told they had been timed on their break between holes 9 and 10 and had taken too long. They were then asked to leave, offered their membership money refunded, and the police were called.
“I felt we were discriminated against,” Ojo said Sunday. “It was a horrific experience.”
On his Twitter page, Hughes posted about one of the videos shot during part of the incident: “The video speaks for itself, which is why I am asking for the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission to investigate the report of discrimination at Grandview Golf Club in York County, Pa. We must address discrimination on the state level.” Hughes then tagged Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf. On Wednesday, a golf club member who was playing directly behind the women said the group kept pace on the course.
RELATED ARTICLE: 5 Black Women Golfers Claim Discrimination After Police Are Called for ‘Slow Play’ at White Owned Golf Course
Damen Carter-Mann’s statements contradict those made by the club’s ownership, who insist the women were golfing too slowly. Carter-Mann, 33, of Camp Hill, Pa., said he was part of a three-man group who teed off behind the women late Saturday morning.
THIS SHOULD NOT BE HAPPENING
“Not one time, from (hole) 1 to 9, did we catch up with those ladies,” said Carter-Mann. “If that’s what was happening, if they were targeted because of their gender or because of their race, it’s a shame. We are in 2018, this should not be happening.”
The story has made national headlines and comes on the heels of a high-profile case in Philadelphia where two black men, waiting for a business meeting, were arrested at Starbucks. Read more at USAToday.com
5 members of Sisters In ee Fairway claim racial and gender discrimination at Pennsylvania’s Grandview Golf Club after police are called for ‘slow play’.
AAGD STAFF
April 24, 2018
Being an African American golfer in America may give some people the impression that you’re elite, upscale or well to do, but regardless of the prestige that surrounds the game, this past Saturday a group of five black women playing at a Pennsylvania golf club found themselves in front of area police after the club called in the authorities, saying, the group was playing to slow.
The co-owner of Grandview Golf Club and his father said the women were playing too slowly and refused requests to leave the course, according to the Associated Press.
Golfer Sandra Thompson and four of her friends met up Saturday to play a round of golf at Dover Township’s Grandview Golf Club, where they are all members, she told the Guardian newspaper. Thompson said that once their group reached the second hole, a white man whose son co-owns the club came up to them twice to complain that they weren’t keeping up with the pace of play. Thompson, who is an attorney and also heads the York chapter of the NAACP, told the Guardian newspaper it was untrue.
KEEPING PACE ON COURSE
On the same hole, group member Sandra Harrison, said she spoke with the golf pro at the club, who said the group was fine, and that they were keeping pace with the group ahead of them.
Despite that, the women skipped playing the third hole in order to avoid any other issues, she said.
“I felt we were discriminated against,” one of the women, Myneca Ojo, told the York Daily Record. “It was a horrific experience.”
Video submitted to YouTube by Sandra Thompson
As a part of golf etiquette, and not to hold up the pace of play, slow-moving players will let groups behind them go ahead, or what is known as ‘play through.’ To monitor the pace of play, golf courses have ‘rangers’ (or other personnel) who monitor the pace of play on the course, letting golfers know when they are taking too long.
The five women were Sandra Thompson, Myneca Ojo, Sandra Harrison, Carolyn Dow and Karen Crosby. Thompson, 50, is the president of the York branch of the NAACP, a former candidate for York County judge, the vice chair of the county Democratic party and a full-time attorney.
The five black women golfers are not novice players, but, in fact, are members of the group of local Pennsylvania businesswomen known as Sisters in the Fairway. The group has been in existence for nearly a decade and is made up of experienced players who are known for competing and golfing all over the country and around the globe. Thompson said they’re very familiar with golf etiquette. This was their first time playing at the course, and they even got special permission from the course clerk to golf as a fivesome that day.
TAKING A BREAK – HALFWAY THROUGH
After the ninth hole, where it is customary to take a break before continuing on the next nine holes, three of the five black women in the group (Harrison, Crosby and Dow) decided to leave the course because of being so disturbed and shaken up by the earlier treatment, the women told the Guardian newspaper.
According to the Guardian newspaper, Thompson said the man from the second hole, identified as former York county commissioner Steve Chronister, his son, club co-owner Jordan Chronister and several other white, male employees approached the remaining two women and said they took too long of a break and they needed to leave the course.
Myneca Ojo, a member of Sisters in the Fairway said, “They came in an approach that was really hostile, and these guys were 6’3″- 6’4″. And so it was about four or five of them that were together and they all had drinks in their hand. So we were very frightened,” she told Fox 43.com.
The women argued they took an appropriate break, and that the men behind them were still on their beer break and not ready to tee off, as seen in a video Thompson gave the newspaper. The women were told that the police had been called, and so they waited. Northern York County regional police arrived, conducted interviews and left without charging anyone.
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“We were called there for an issue, the issue did not warrant any charges,” Northern York County regional police chief Mark Bentzel said. “All parties left and we left as well.” In attempting to reach Steve Chronister through a phone listing, the line rang busy on Monday. He told the York Daily Record he didn’t have time to comment on Sunday.
Since the Saturday ordeal, the Grandview Golf Club has apologized for calling police on the group of black women. And reportedly, the apology came on Sunday from Jordan Chronister’s wife and co-owner of the club, JJ Chronister, who personally called the women to apologize and the club has offered the women full refunds of their membership, but they are more interested in answers to this situation before taking checks. The Chronister’s are part of a group who purchased the course in Spring 2017.
“We sincerely apologize to the women for making them feel uncomfortable here at Grandview, that is not our intention in any way,” Ms. Chronister told the Guardian newspaper. “We want all of our members to feel valued and that they can come out here and have a great time, play golf and enjoy the experience.”
Chronister—who was not even present during the altercation—said she hopes to meet with the black women to have a conversation as to how the golf club can take the incident as a learning experience and do better in the future. However, Thompson said she’s not sure a meeting is what needs to happen.
“This type of treatment to black women reeks of racial and gender discrimination,” said Debert Cook, publisher, African American Golfer’s Digest. “I am disgusted to learn of this situation. How much more humiliation and denigration do we have to take, as a race of black people, before we are fully respected in this country, and in this game? Certainly, some strong measures are needed to see that this type of harassment is not inflicted upon black women, or persons of color, who seek to enjoy a round of play on a golf course.”
“There needs to be something more substantial to understand they don’t treat people in this manner,” she said to the Guardian newspaper.
The Women of Color Golf first graduating class for 2018 on a field trip to Valspar Championship.
(April 20, 2018)
If you are even thinking about taking up the game of golf— and have found reason after to reason to keep putting it off— then, you must read this story.
YOU ARE NOT ALONE
Many have either delayed or totally put off the one decision which can and will change your life. Read here about Clemmie Perry, founder and CEO of Women Of Color Golf (WOCG) and how she has helped to impact the lives of women in Tampa, Florida, forever by introducing them to all of the benefits that come with participating and enjoying the game.
Pay particular attention to the reflections of one of these women, who put it in perspective in her own words.
WOCG was very busy during the Valspar Championship week, March 5 -11, being invited to and attending several of the exciting events that week which included:
- Attendance at the Executive Women’s Day Luncheon with Dr. Sheila Johnson (African American Female Owner of the Innisbrook & Salamander Resorts), Beverly Johnson (1st African American Model to appear on the cover of Vogue magazine, World Renown Model and beauty Mogul) and Keynote Speaker Carla Harris (Morgan Stanley, Vice Chairman, Global Wealth)
- Participation in an exclusive and intimate brunch with Dr. Sheila Johnson and the WOCG Millennial Group. The group was invited to see Dr. Johnson receive the Cecil B. Day Ethics Award in Hospitality, from Florida State University.
- A special field trip by the WOCG 2018 Class to attend the Valspar Championship, experience a professional golf tournament and to see Tiger Woods play before a record crowd at the Valspar Championship.
These special ladies had just completed their first five-week class with the Women of Color Golf in Tampa and TopGolf Tampa. These ladies, through the efforts of Clemmie Perry, experienced more in these few weeks than others might experience in a lifetime.
One of the newly converted golfers, Colette Glover-Hannah, founder of Hannah’s Shoe Box reflects on her new golf journey, which started just six weeks ago when she registered for a Women of Color Golf Beginner Golf Clinic.
IN HER OWN WORDS: “My Journey Into Golf”
Colette Glover-Hannah, Founder, Hannah’s Shoe Box
“During the past few years, the thought of playing golf had entered my mind,” says Colette, “It was usually triggered from a visual on a presentation recruiting visitors to a facility, or an outing, or by pictures of friends or business acquaintances posting on social media.” It was these same ideas that would repeatedly enter this business owner’s mind. “H’mm, one day, I will at least examine learning to play,” she said. “By that I mean, I will search how to play golf on Google or YouTube. Well, then is now, and I am loving learning to play.”
A few months ago, Colette got a call from Clemmie, whom she says she was familiar with but didn’t know well at the time. “She asked if we could do lunch and I quickly responded, yes, to the offer.”
Colette recalls, “After comparing notes about how we are navigating the path of entrepreneurship as startups, she mentioned an upcoming beginner’s golf session at her program. I was eager to participate and immediately accepted the offer to join the others in the program.”
In a partnership with Top Golf, the WOCG program has produced the necessary tools for a dynamic introductory program, as well as laid a foundation for sustainable expansion. “After only a few weeks of participating in the program, my four cohorts and I were introduced to one of eight African American women in history who has played in the LPGA: Shasta Averyhardt who shared her journey as a woman of color in golf, chronicling her journey as a collegiate athlete to her current challenges on the golf tour,” admits Colette.
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“We were excited to be introduced to someone who is so dedicated and committed to the sport that we are now beginning to play. After the interaction with golf greatness, we were informed that we would take a ‘field trip’ to the Valspar Championship PGA Tour.
(l-r) Clemmie Perry, Founder and CEO of Women of Color Golf & Dr. Sheila Johnson
We were eager to visit Valspar to see the game up close that we were learning to play, as well as walk the golf course to see its layout. Then IT happened. The announcement that Tiger Wood would be joining the tournament! As a newbie in the sport, we were in shock at the rate that our exposure to the game was rapidly expanding.”
“I had the opportunity to spend two days at the Valspar Championship with the other women in the WOCG cohort. The first day was filled with sheer excitement from the moment we touched the grounds of Innisbrook. We entered the golf course at the seventh hole and literally walked right into a gathered crowd. We had absolutely no idea what was going on around us but had a feeling that it was big. Surrounded by onlookers who were vying for the premier spot— to be right at the rope. We quickly understood the importance of each bystander’s position on the green.”
“After about 20 minutes on the 7th hole, we heard rumblings of the name “Tiger.” In fact, we quickly realized those voices were quietly announcing the arrival of Tiger. Because the rows were four-to-five people deep from the rope, I had to literally jump up to get a mere glimpse at the person once referred to as the King of the Course.”
“I could not believe my eyes as Tiger walked down the fairways toward my section of the tee box. I still had no idea about what was supposed to happen, or about to happen for that matter. All I knew was that we needed to find a better spot. Cathy, my WOCG cohort and longtime friend, and I walked around until we found a clear spot on the side of the tee box that would allow us to get a better glimpse of Tiger. I had so many thoughts going through my head as Tiger finally appeared on the tee.”
“We were clicking pictures and video as fast as we could while he did practice swings. And then he made that one stroke that garnered a huge round of applause from the crowd— that I could only liken to the cheers that I had heard after a touchdown in football, or a dunk on the basketball court. People immediately started calling Tiger’s name out loud and proceeded to participate in a great migration as they followed Tiger from each hole to the other.”
“Cathy and I decided to stall our Tiger trek. We decided to visit the 11th hole where we would join the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center’s tent. As we are moving toward the destination, we hear whispers of Tiger’s name again. We slowed down and realized that Tiger’s making his way down the fairway to our location. This time we can have a front row spot for this viewing of Tiger. In about 10-15 minutes here comes Tiger, again! A reporter noticed us taking pictures and recording video of Tiger’s performance and decided to interview us about ‘the Tiger Effect’ for a local daily newspaper.”
VALSPAR DAY #2
“The second day at Valspar was even more eventful, because, I was joined by the other four women on my Women of Color Golf program. Thanks to Clemmie’s patience in waiting for our arrival, we were all able to snag great seats on a bench at the third hole to see several great golfers literally hit their balls down the fairway that landed right in front of us. After exploring Innisbrook and seeing Tiger once more, we knew that we had made the right decision to pursue this sport,” exclaimed Colette.
“As black women, and a golf beginner, we were very conscious of our presence at Valspar. While we were probably there for the same reasons that the other 195,000 people who attended, we were without a doubt noticeably different from those others. During the two days that I attended the event, I saw very, very, very few black women participants. My cohorts and I whispered about the stares we received from the other observers, as well as the being misidentified as employees of the tournament and the subtle announcement of “here comes trouble” as we entered the gates of the facility. Hence the need for a movement to bring more black women to recreational golf. I consider this ‘movement’ to be part of a greater shift to occur in golf.”
THE MANY BENEFITS
“The need for more diversity and inclusion in golf is evident. The past couple of months have been incredible for me as a newcomer. Again, meeting Shasta, seeing Tiger, and having a private meet and greet with golf royalty Renee Powell, supports my belief that this golf journey is preordained. Those of us who are part of the WOCG program understand the possibilities that occur from learning and playing this game. The fact that our income on average may increase by 17 percent, that we are increasing our circle of influence via networking and, that we may even live longer. All the attributes mentioned are attractive and beneficial for anyone interested in learning and playing the game, but for WOCG they are truly game changers.
By the way. Tiger Woods finished second, by 1 stroke, to the winner, Paul Casey. This was Tiger’s best finish since he tied for 10th at the 2015 Wyndham Championship.
Now that you have read Colette’s story, go out and sign up and learn to play and experience this great game. If you need to find a group or professional just contact me and I will connect you to someone in your area who is as dedicated as Clemmie Perry is—and continues to be, in Tampa.
James Beatty, Executive Editor, African American Golfer’s Digest
James R. Beatty is Founder of NCS International, an Omaha, Nebraska-based company that providers of an array of economic development services. He serves as Executive Editor at the African American Golfer’s Digest and on the Golf 20/20 Diversity Task Force.
Coach Gary Grandison and the ALABAMA STATE Golf Team
(April 19, 2018)
In many advertising media today you have seen and heard the phrase LG,”Life’s ’Good”, well for me it now means LaJean Gould and her team at the Women in Golf Foundation Inc. in Atlanta. LaJean is the founder and president of WIGF whose mission is to enhance the lives of females in collegiate golf programs by providing opportunities that enhance their skills, career awareness and ability to succeed. April 9 -11 she and her team hosted the 24thWomen’s Collegiate Golf Championship at Whitewater Creek Country Club in Fayetteville, GA. The seven teams and 35 golfers plus coaches and numerous community members participated in the workshop entitled “Job Readiness in the Age of Technology.”
The workshop featured panelists from a variety of backgrounds facilitated by Charlene Fitzpatrick. The outstanding panel included Anne Quiello, Professional Trainer and Coach, Fran Shockley, Manager of Delivery and Design from Delta Airlines, Kamille Ramos, Manager of Diversity and Talent Acquisition at the United States Golf Association, Lauren Shelly, Director of Recruiting and Special Events at the American Junior Golf Association, Matasha Burr, Director of Sales, Georgia/South Carolina Market of AT&T and Rachel Melendez, PGA WORKS, program specialist with PGA REACH.
Panelists: Lauren Shelly (AJGA), Kamille Ramos (USGA), Anne Quiello, Rachel Melendez-Mabee (PGA REACH), Matasha Burr (AT&T) and Fran Shockley (DELTA )
The collegians were provided insights and practical applications on how to prepare for and succeed in the workplace and also participated in an exercise called Speed Interviewing. The workshop also featured Stephen Hamblin, Executive Director of the American Junior Golf Association as the guest speaker. Special guests attending the event also included Michael Cooper, Tampa, Fla, Chairman World Golf Foundation Golf 2020 Diversity Initiatives Task Force and Craig Kirby of Washington DC, Founder and President of Golf My Future My Game and Chairman of the Workforce Subcommittee of the Task Force and myself, Chairman of the Recreational Play Subcommittee. 
RELATED ARTICLE: Dr. Michael Cooper Appointed Chairperson, Golf 20/20 Diversity Task Force
After the workshop, the golfers got in some practice and commenced with a scramble shotgun start of over 26 foursomes consisting of community and business leaders with a collegiate golfer on each team. While all teams competed well, the winning team posted a scorching 16 under 56.
These golfers are listening intently to every word!
(l-r) Jim Beatty, Lizabeth Randles of Hampton University and Jemal Everett.
I had the privilege of playing with LizabethRandles from the HamptonUniversityy golf team and Jemal D. Everett, Tax Accountant from Atlanta. Our threesome was able to post a respectable 65 due in large part to the short game touch provided by Lizabeth, who also finished 23rd in the individual competition.
LaJean Gould (front row, center) and The Women In Golf Foundation team
It was a joy to visit with her and the other young ladies to learn about their life as college golfers. It was quite revealing to learn that the transition from high school to college golf was more technical and analytical that many had expected but they were adjusting to the demands of competitive play.
Renee Powell Cup
The official competition for the Renee Powell Cup, named after the 2nd African American to play on the LPGA, began the next day with seven teams traveling to compete. After a day of competition, all were able to relax and unwind in the evening with Linnet Carty of the PGA of America who served as Mistress of Ceremonies and entertainment provided by Comedian, Jessica “It’s all Good” Williams and Saxophonist Keven Shepherd.
The second day of the competition concluded with Alabama State defending its title and was crowned the overall champion followed by North Carolina A&T and Texas Southern University. It is interesting to note that Alabama State placed 5 golfers in the top 11. Coach Gary Grandison must be doing something right!
The Golf Industry needs to thank LaJean Gould and the entire Women In Golf Foundation and its Board of Directors, Advisory Board and Committees for its tireless work in planning and implementing a first-class program.
RELATED ARTICLE: Alabama State University Wins 24th Annual Women’s Collegiate Championship
Not ones to rest on their laurels, the Women in Golf Foundation is taking applications now for its 2018 Youth Golf Leadership Summer Camp for beginners ages 8 -18 and College Golf Prep Camp for ages 13 and older. As a final word, I would urge people to get involved with the Women in Golf Foundation or a similar program in their respective area that promote and support player development and competition. Life is indeed Good but it can be better! See you on the next nine.
James R. Beatty is Founder of NCS International, an Omaha, Nebraska-based company that providers of an array of economic development services. He serves as Executive Editor at the African American Golfer’s Digest and on the Golf 20/20 Diversity Task Force.
April 18, 2018
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Captain America, welcome back to the concrete jungle. THE NORTHERN TRUST’s 2016 champion Patrick Reed has had quite the whirlwind past couple of weeks. Reed earned his first major championship title and sixth PGA TOUR victory at the Masters Tournament two weekends ago, winning by one stroke over Rickie Fowler. He then took a bite out of the Big (Green) Apple, and by the looks of it, his post-Masters media tour tastedpretty sweet. He….
Do you all remember when Reed broke the gavel at the New York Stock Exchange back in 2016? That broken gavel turned out to be Reed’s good luck charm, as he went on to win THE NORTHERN TRUST later that week. The NYSE presented Reed with a new, unbroken gavel, effectively closing the #GavelGate scandal. #shhhhhh |
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Now on the tee, The Ridgewood Country Club. The Ridgewood Country Club is hosting THE NORTHERN TRUST for the fourth time in the event’s history, and it’s safe to say The RCC knows a thing or two about crowning some seriously good champions and prepping them for future success. Just ask Vijay Singh, who won THE NORTHERN TRUST in 2008 and then went on to be crowned the FedExCup champion just a few weeks later. Or Matt Kuchar, our 2010 champion, who went on to finish a career-best 2nd in the FedExCup standings. Oh yeah, and then there’s one of our golf boys Hunter Mahan, who finished a career-best 6th in the FedExCup standings after his win here in 2014. While plenty of storylines have yet to unfold, one thing’s for sure: The Ridgewood Country Club, founded in 1890 (making it one of the oldest country clubs in America), has played a key role in golf’s history, hosting some of the most prestigious events: 1935 Ryder Cup, 1974 U.S. Amateur, 1990 U.S. Senior Open, and 2001 Senior PGA Championship, to name a few. THE NORTHERN TRUST’s 2018 champion will be in very good company. |
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Every stroke matters. We hope you’ve timed your pre-round stretching and warmup routine down to mere milliseconds like Justin Thomas, because there’s no time to waste! In T-125 days, the world’s best golfers will arrive at The Ridgewood Country Club in Paramus, New Jersey, for their chance to win THE NORTHERN TRUST, catapult up the FedExCup standings and hoist the FedExCup at the season’s end. If this doesn’t scream do-or-die drama, then we don’t know what does. Speaking of Justin Thomas, the reigning FedExCup champion has kept his No. 1 spot in the FedExCup standings for the eighth week in a row. THE NORTHERN TRUST’s 2017 champion Dustin Johnson put up a T16 performance at the RBC Heritage this past weekend and has moved from No. 7 to No. 5 in the FedExCup standings, but remember: no one’s spot is secure. Anything can happen—just ask Satoshi Kodaira. The 28-year-old Japan native sunk a 24’,6” birdie putt to win the RBC Heritage in a playoff over Korea’s Si Woo Kim and earn his first PGA TOUR victory in just his 15thstart. Hey, we gotta keep you guessing, right? |
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Out here, there are no assigned seats. ICYMI: the PGA TOUR launched a new brand campaign last week, Live Under Par, that plays off golf’s unique scoring language and captures and celebrates the energy and spirit of today’s TOUR. It is our goal to immerse spectators into every aspect of the game and to “join the PGA TOUR,” and here at THE NORTHERN TRUST, we encourage you to share your stories, experiences and “Did you see that?!” moments with us. Remember, the front row is always moving, and that’s exactly how it should be. And we also know that every fan will walk into THE NORTHERN TRUST this year in search of different experiences, so we offer affordable ticket types and packages to meet everyone’s needs. The Family Plan, for instance, provides two adult grounds tickets, unlimited youth admission at the gate and two $10 concession vouchers for families seeking a day at THE NORTHERN TRUST (Thursday- Sunday) without breaking the bank. For those who don’t want to miss any of the FedExCup Playoffs action, don’t worry, the $195 weekly pass is perfect for you. VisitTHENORTHERNTRUST.COM for more detailed information, or call 844-868-7465. And don’t forget! Kids 18 and younger are admitted free of charge when accompanied by a ticketed adult, and there is no limit to the number of youth fans admitted with that ticketed adult. #growthegame |
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I need a hero! The MET area has proudly boasted a strong contingent of hard-working, passionate and dedicated volunteers over the years. Check out this article(go to pages 60-64) in MET Golfer about the vital role volunteers play in ensuring tournaments like THE NORTHERN TRUST run smoothly. If it weren’t for the 1,800 men, women and children—across 23 committees—who volunteer their time, THE NORTHERN TRUST would not be possible. Since 1967, THE NORTHERN TRUST has generated more than $46.2 million for New York/New Jersey Metropolitan-area charities, and our volunteers play a key role in making these charitable contributions happen. As Executive Director Julie Tyson put it, “They [volunteers] are truly the unsung heroes of every PGA TOUR tournament, no question.” If you’re interested in being a hero, visit THENORTHERNTRUST.COM and click “Event Info” followed by “Volunteer Information.” |
Put your money where your putter is, and you’ll find yourself with your mouth wide open, as the Tiger Woods’ Scotty Cameron Newport 2 just sold for a whopping $44,000.
This most notable flagstick is arguably the most famous club in modern golf history–that is along with the notable “Calamity Jane” flatstick used by Robert Tyre “Bobby” Jones Jr.!
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In this week’s edition of “Items Selling For More than You Could Ever Afford,” Golf WRX, reported the pricy sale of the putter. In 2015, a Japanese collector purchased a similar Woods backup putter for $60K.
Green Jacket Auctions, who put the putter up, reports that Scotty Cameron only produced one or two backup putters for Woods annually. Reportedly, Woods still owns the vast majority of these putters and has stuck to his “gamer” for 13 of his 14 major championships.
Green Jacket Auctions adds,
“This putter comes with a certificate of authenticity from Scotty Cameron, who describes it as follows “Made for Tiger Woods, GSS Newport II with rare vertical stamping & sight dot”. The putter also comes with a 2nd letter from 2003 on Scotty Cameron’s own letterhead, which also states “This putter was made as a backup for Tiger Woods.”’
The auction house’s Masters lot also included Woods’ 2005 Masters-winning Nike One Gold golf ball, which sold for just north of $30K.
(April 12, 2018) The 24th Annual Women’s Collegiate Championship took place at Whitewater Creek Country, 175 Birkdale Dr., Fayetteville, Georgia on April 9 – 11, 2018. Hosted by The Women in Golf Foundation, Inc.(WIGF) the tournament presents exciting competition while showcasing talent from some of America’s top Universities women’s golf programs as they compete for the “Renee Powell Cup”. The trophy honors Renee Powell, a pioneer African American Female professional golfer.
Coach Gary Grandison and the ALABAMA STATE Team.
Congratulations to:
1st Place – Alabama State University
2nd Place – North Carolina A&T
3rd Place – Texas Southern University
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MORE….24th Annual Women’s Collegiate Golf Championship
Coach Richard Watkins and the NORTH CAROLINA A&T team.
Coach Henry Stewart and TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY team
SAVANNAH STATE team (Coach Art Gelow was busy packing the bus!)
Coach Jamila Johnson (far right) and UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE team. Coach Johnson played in the very First Women’s Collegiate Championship!
Coach Dennis Nelson and the HAMPTON UNIVERSITY team
Coach Angela Dehning (left) and the CHICAGO STATE UNIVERSITY team
RELATED ARTICLE: The 24th National Women’s Collegiate Golf Championship
Loritz “Scoote”r Clark, PGA
PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. (April 11, 2018) – The PGA of America has named Loritz “Scooter” Clark as Manager of the PGA Minority Collegiate Championship, which will be held at PGA Golf Club in Port St. Lucie, Florida, May 10-13, 2018.
In his new position, Clark will work closely with Strategic Advisory and Coaches Advisory groups to assure that the Championship delivers on the long-term goals and objectives for all stakeholders, including the student-athletes, coaches, partners and golf industry employers.
Clark’s involvement with the PGA Minority Collegiate Championship dates to his playing days – he participated in the inaugural Championship in 1987 for Southern University, and three more after transferring to the University of Maryland – and includes an eight-year stint as Director of Intercollegiate Golf at Bethune-Cookman University. His men’s and women’s teams combined to win 10 PGA Minority Collegiate Championship Division I titles, the most in the 31-year history of the Championship.
A PGA Professional since 2009, Clark partnered with the PGA Minority Collegiate Championship while working for Titleist and FootJoy, and is an ardent supporter of the event’s Business of Golf Career Expo, which educates participating student-athletes on the employment opportunities available in the global golf business and provides a forum to personally connect with key industry employers.
“To be able to work with nearly 29,000 PGA Professionals and this group of student-athletes is humbling,” said Clark, who most recently served as the Executive Director for The First Tee of Greater Baltimore. “I’m ready to start building, collaborating and sharing ideas that will elevate the PGA Minority Collegiate Championship, its corresponding Career Expo, and ultimately the game of golf.”
RELATED ARTICLE: Bethune-Cookman Remains Triumphant at PGA Minority Collegiate Golf Championship Presented by CastleOak Securities.
The PGA Minority Collegiate Championship is a 54-hole, stroke-play Championship contested in four-team divisions: NCAA Men’s Division I, Men’s Division II, Men’s NAIA and an overall Women’s Division. In addition, there is an Individual Division for minority men and women who are listed on the roster of their college team or are part of the PGA of America’s PGA Golf Management University programs.
“We aspire to continue to elevate the PGA Minority Collegiate Championship and secure its standing as the preeminent golf event and golf career expo for student-athletes from Historically Black Colleges and Universities and minority-serving institutions,” said Sandy Cross, the PGA of America’s Senior Director of Diversity & Inclusion. “To this end, there is no one more familiar with, and passionate about, the Championship, its history and shaping the direction of its programming than Scooter Clark. After many years as participant and coach, we’re thrilled to welcome Scooter to our team, as he’s uniquely qualified to leverage the Championship and to expose its diverse and talented field to opportunities golf affords.”
Since 1998, PGA Golf Club has hosted the PGA Minority Collegiate Championship. In 2006, the PGA of America was granted complete ownership and management of the Championship by the National Minority College Golf Scholarship Fund.
About the PGA of America
The PGA of America represents the very best in golf. For more information about the PGA of America, visit PGA.org, follow @PGA on Twitter and find us on Facebook.
By John Perry
Earl Hawkins, Owner, Hawkins Golf Academy at Orange County National
This article is about Earl Hawkins, but you can’t talk about Earl without talking about Phil Ritson. Phil Ritson was considered a Pro’s Pro. He was respected by golf professionals around the world. Phil was 88-years-old when he passed away on August 19th, 2017. He founded and developed the Orange County National Golf & Lodge, located in Winter Garden, Fla.
OCN Golf & Lodge is the home of two premier championship golf courses: Crooked Cat and Panther Lake. Plus, there is a nine-hole executive course called The Tooth, along with the largest driving range in the country.
OCN Golf & Lodge, as it is affectionately referred to by locals and tourist alike, is also the host site to the annual “Demo Day,” which takes place in January each year and kicks off the beginning of the PGA Merchandise Show–the golf industry’s annual major event, held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando.
OCN opened its doors in 1997, 21-years ago. Back then, during OCN’s inception, Earl Hawkins was just one of seven golf instructors under Phil’s tutelage. Famous golf instructor David Leadbetter was also one of those seven.
Earl Hawkins was born in Warrenton, N.C. The town is located about 60-miles from Raleigh and was reputedly the wealthiest town in the state during the 1850s as the trading center of an area of rich tobacco and cotton plantations.
The Hawkins family moved to Brooklyn (and later Queens) N. Y. where Earl graduated from Andrew Jackson High School (1973). Earl later married and became the proud father of two daughters and a son. Not wanting his kids to grow up in the asphalt jungle of the city, he moved his family to Central Florida and the Orlando area. He now resides in South Clermont, Fla., where his home is a 30-minute commute from Orange County National.
Earl is the only African American with his own Golf Academy at OCN. He can be found at [email protected] or HawkinsGolfAcademy.com. He can be reached at 407-625-1550. After Earl arrived in Florida, he quickly enrolled his daughters into the highly acclaimed Orlando Minority Youth Golf Association (OMYGA) that is owned and operated by Dr. T.J. Dorsey, recipient of all kinds of distinctive honors and accolades.
RELATED ARTICLE: Orlando Minority Youth Golf Association Helps Our Future
The OMYGA has been featured in African American Golfer’s Digest in one of their previous issues. The nonprofit is one of the nation’s most successful youth golf organizations. Earl also credits Dr. Dorsey in planting the seed in him which inspired him to start his own academy.
Earl has an average of one to two kids a year receiving golf scholarships. Ignacio Arcaya Jr. is one of them. He will be going to New Mexico University this fall. John Patrick Miller is another scholarship recipient, he will be going to George Mason University in Virginia this fall, as well.
Earl also taught Delores White, who went to Wake Forest University and was a roommate of Tiger Woods famous niece, Cheyenne Woods. Earl’s son Cameroon graduated with honors from Edward Waters College in Jacksonville, Fla., an HBCU school. His goal is to be in Law Enforcement in an administrative or field capacity.
A WHO’S WHO LIST OF CLIENTS
Earl Hawkins stands by photo of his mentor, Phil Ritson, at OCN
Earl’s contract agreement with OCN after 21-years consists of monthly facility fees and paying for range balls for his students or clients. If Phil Ritson was still alive today that might not have been the case. FYI– Walt Disney brought Phil Ritson to Florida during the early 70’s to head golf operations for Disney Golf. That’s how Phil got introduced to America. Phil is originally from South Africa. His expertise and contribution to this great game is unparalleled. His students and clients list is a who’s, who celebrity collaboration of PGA, LPGA, actors, entertainers, athletes, CEO’s, politicians, and VIP’s from all walks of life. Phil was considered the best of the best by many.
Earl Hawkins is extremely proud to have been one of Phil’s students (or proteges). Just to name a few, Phil’s clientele consist of names like Gary Player, Seve Ballesteros, Andy Bean, David Frost, Sally Little, K. J. Choi, Isao Aoki, Billy Mayfair, Lee Janzen, Paul Harvey, Andre Agassi, Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Lou Holtz, J. C. Snead, Steve Jones, Billy Eckstine, Gary “US ” Bonds, Keith Clearwater, Fulton Allen, and Amy Yang. The list goes on and on.
Earl Hawkins on driving range at Orange County National
Earl’s continued success and teaching method at OCN is a walking testament to Phil Ritson’s greatness. Important note: OCN has been around for 21- years and so has Earl Hawkins! Talk about being a survivor, keep up the good work Earl. You’re making us, and Phil, extremely proud.
One of Phil’s favorite quotes, says Earl, is that “You can’t make a Volkswagen win a Grand Prix, you have to want it.” Earl Hawkins is a well-kept secret, let’s make him a household name.
—John Perry, reporting for AAGD.
John Perry is a freelance writer, poet and active golfer with a passion for calling shots like he sees them and, then, telling it like it is. He is the author of Playing In the Dark and he resides in Orlando, Florida.
Source: WalletHub
[See more daily coverage: April 5 | April 6 | April 7 | April 8 ]
(April 8, 2018) I’ve arrived at the Media Center at 5:50 AM on Sunday. Looking around, I discover that the African American Golfers Digest is the first one here. So, I had the place all to myself for 12 whole minutes, that is until the media folks from the Tokyo Sports Press and Golf Digest Japan came in and went right to work—remember it’s 6:50 PM in Japan (UTC +9 time zone).
BY THE WAY
On this day in 1974, Hank Aaron broke Babe Ruth’s career record by hitting his 715th home run off LA pitcher Al Downing (also an African American).
On this day in 1975, Frank Robinson became the first black manager in major league history by making his debut as player-manager of the Cleveland Indians.
These accomplishments serve as testimony to the fact that when given the opportunity, we can, and will, excel!!
Back to Golf:
Well, in my relative 12 minutes of morning solitude in the Media Center, I was reading the Sunday Augusta Chronicle and saw this article which I wanted to share with AAGD readers. Please read on.
“Famous Augusta National caddie no longer has unmarked grave”
Nathaniel “Iron Man” Avery caddying for Arnold Palmer. (Augusta Chronicle)
Avery, an Augusta native, died in 1985 and was buried at a cemetery about five miles from Augusta National. Nathaniel “Iron Man” Avery first caddied for Arnold Palmer at Augusta National in 1955 and was on the bag for all of his Masters victories.
Nathaniel “Iron Man” Avery
One of the most famous caddies in Masters Tournament history finally has a marker on his Augusta grave. Nathaniel “Iron Man” Avery, who caddied for Arnold Palmer in all four of his Masters victories, had been laid to rest in an unmarked grave in Southview Cemetery when he died in 1985.
Former Augusta resident Ward Clayton, an executive producer on the documentary “Loopers: A Caddie’s Life,” which will be released this summer, has known for years there was no gravestone for Avery at the all-black cemetery. But last summer, he wanted to make sure. He found the number of the plot where Avery was located. There was still no gravestone.
An anonymous donor, in conjunction with the documentary, helped to change that. They designed and picked up the expense for the cost of the gravestone. It was unveiled last summer at the cemetery, about five miles from Augusta National Golf Club’s gates.
Former Westside High School and Duke guard and NBA first-round pick Will Avery, who is a great nephew to Iron Man, was among the family members at the cemetery the day the gravestone was placed.
Gravestone of Nathaniel “Iron Man” Avery (Augusta Chronicle)
“It meant a lot to me,” said Avery, who is now 38 and lives in Augusta. “I wasn’t even aware (of the unmarked grave) until this came about. I’m glad he got his just due. My family is thankful and proud he has that.” Will Avery was born after Iron Man died, but he heard all the stories of the man who he has always called his Uncle Iron Man. “His success, in today’s world, would be celebrated much more,” Avery said, referring to his four wins at the Masters. “That’s an amazing accomplishment.”
The record for most Masters wins by an Augusta National caddie is five each, by Willie “Pappy” Stokes and Willie Peterson, while Avery and Steve Williams have four each. The film traces the history of caddies and “a huge part” of it details Augusta National caddies such as Iron Man, according to Clayton.
Avery was one of the first caddies to become publicly known because he was by Palmer’s side as the King took the golf world by storm. Palmer was assigned Avery as his Masters caddie starting with his Augusta National debut in 1955, when he tied for 10th place.
Palmer then won green jackets in 1958, 1960, 1962 and 1964, making this the 60th anniversary of Palmer’s first victory. Avery caddied for Palmer through “the late ’60s,” said Clayton, whose 2004 book “Men on the Bag” was about Augusta National caddies. In his book, Clayton writes that Avery would buy a new car the day after each Masters victory. Avery fell on hard times after losing connection with Palmer. Arnold Palmer won the Masters in 1958,1960,1962 and 1964
LEE AND SHARON ELDER ENJOYING THE MASTERS
I took a break from the media building and went touring the course and bumped into Lee Elder and his wife, Sharon. We all know what Mr. Elder had to endure when he broke the color line at Augusta National in 1975. In my mind he will forever be royalty at Augusta.
By the way, lunch today was pineapple chicken and collard green soup. Need I say more?
Tiger actually did better than I predicted and shot a 3 under par 69 which gets him into a tie for 32nd place, good for just about $68,000. While I am mildly disappointed that he did not win, I am encouraged by his gritty performance each of the four days as there were many points at which his performance could have gone very sour. I think he should take pride in battling to make the cut and going under par in his final round.
He undoubtedly will work on his irons to ensure himself better looks for birdie pouts. Overall, I am encouraged and expect continued improved performance this season, including a win.
I will tell you that the media center is as loud as it has been all week watching Jordan Spieth and Patrick Reed go at it with a good mixture of Ricky Fowler added to the mix.
Eventually, Patrick Reed won the 2018 Masters. His grit and determination were on display, especially after he bogeyed the first hole. He gathered himself and played steady golf shooting a 1 under 71. I was very impressed with Jordan Spieth who fired an 8 under 64 and would have tied the course record had he not bogeyed 18. What a day!
I have made many new friends and acquaintances this week at the Masters, as this serves as testimony that golf brings people together from all backgrounds and geography. We all want to see great shots, head-to-head play, overcoming adversity, long putts made and low scores.
This has been a great week for me and another one starts tomorrow, as I head to the 24th annual National Women’s Collegiate Golf Championship sponsored by the Women in Golf Foundation which will be held at the Whitewater Creek Country Club in Fayetteville, GA.
RELATED ARTICLE:
Women in Golf Foundation Past Champions
The participating schools will compete for the Renee Powell Cup honoring Renee Powell, the second African American to compete on the LPGA as a female professional golfer. The event is officiated by Georgia Golf Association, PGA professionals and USGA volunteers.
I appreciate each and everyone one of you who read my daily reports. I hope I was able to share my experiences to your satisfaction. If you find yourself Augusta during Masters week next year, you should stop in and enjoy the place. The Augusta National Golf Club is a sight to behold.
It really is “all that and a bag of chips”…theirs.
I would be very honored if you would send me your comments, suggestions and ideas.
Thanks for reading. Meet me at the Masters next year.
James R. Beatty is Founder of NCS International, an Omaha, Nebraska-based company that providers of an array of economic development services. He serves as Executive Editor at the African American Golfer’s Digest and on the Golf 20/20 Diversity Task Force.