OT - Calvin Peete has passed

[knightfan7]

The most successful African-American PGA professional prior to Tiger Woods passed away today at age 71. Won 12 times on tour and represented the US in the '83 and '85 Ryder Cups. He was also know for his funky swing which was due to a broken arm that was not set properly when he was young.

 

[superfan01]

Best prior to tiger? I would say chubbs Peterson holds that title. Sports illustrated had him as the next Arnold Palmer.

 

[superfan01]

In all seriousness Calvin peete didn't start playing golf until his 20s. Crazy. And he had the arm issue. Super talented.

 

[knightfan7]

The most successful African-American PGA professional prior to Tiger Woods passed away today at age 71. Won 12 times on tour and represented the US in the '83 and '85 Ryder Cups. He was also know for his funky swing which was due to a broken arm that was not set properly when he was young.

Come on, a little respect man.

Darn alligator;)

 

[RC1991]

Got to follow him at the Royal Caribbean Classic Sr. PGA Tourney when it was played in Key Biscayne back in the 90's - he was in a group with Gary Player and Chi Chi Rodriquez - was very entertaining watching them!

 

[KaKaKen]

The most successful African-American PGA professional prior to Tiger Woods passed away today at age 71. Won 12 times on tour and represented the US in the '83 and '85 Ryder Cups. He was also know for his funky swing which was due to a broken arm that was not set properly when he was young.

why do you have to mention his race?

 

[knightfan7]

why do you have to mention his race?

Maybe because it was something he had to overcome on his way to the top of his profession? Do you think for a second it was as easy for him as the people he competed against? Do you think he was welcomed everywhere with open arms?

 

[MGSA99]

Can you imagine how any kids ruined their golf swing forever trying to emulate him? (Raises hand)

 

[RUScrew85]

Always liked him as a player.

 

[RUhasarrived]

Before Peete,there was Charlie Sifford,who died only about 3 months ago.he was the first African-American on the tour.

 

[fbc1866]

Rest in peace, good golfer but a great man.

 

[knightfan7]

Interesting facts about Peete that many may not know.

He dropped out of school and was on his own before age 16. Didn't play a round of golf until age 23. When he went to Q-school and qualified for the tour, he was not allowed to play until he earned his GED as a HS diploma is a requirement to join the tour.

 

[WhiteBus]

The Golf Channel just did a great piece on Calvin. He won at the TPC and it was a big deal on so many fronts.

 

[RU85inFla]

Calvin Peete lived modestly here in Ponte Vedra. Would always be outside showing the kids how to chip. Good guy.

 

[WhiteBus]

Golf Channel just had a great piece on Calvin Peete. He won his TPC Championship 30 years ago. Loved seeing his swing again. A guy I always cheered for.