World Golf Hall of Fame & Museum to present a Tribute to African-Americans in Golf

ST AUGUSTINE, Fla. - May 2, 2014 - PRLog -- The World Golf Hall of Fame & Museum has begun creative development on “Honoring the Legacy: A Tribute to African-Americans in Golf” – a new, permanent exhibition that will recognize the triumphs and contributions of African-Americans in the game. With the generous support of The PGA of America, the PGA TOUR and the USGA, the exhibition is expected to open in late spring 2014.

The exhibition will detail the long, rich history of African-Americans in golf, from the difficult beginnings in the late 1800s for pioneers such as John Shippen, to the progress and challenges of today. The exhibition will also highlight the struggles and successes of notable golfers like World Golf Hall of Fame member Charlie Sifford during the Civil Rights era and major personalities such as Althea Gibson, Joe Louis and Tiger Woods.

“It was an honor to be the first African-American inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame,” said Sifford, who was enshrined in 2004. “I am excited that this project is happening now and that fans will be able to see and learn from the stories of other great African-Americans in the game.”

With contributions from The PGA of America, the PGA TOUR and the USGA, the Hall of Fame will create an exhibit that incorporates rare photographs, audio, video and memorabilia like Sifford’s ground-breaking PGA player card from 1960, combined with innovative technology.

“The PGA of America recognizes the historical importance of communicating the many stories of African-Americans who have overcome great adversity to advance the game they love so much,” said Peter Bevacqua, Chief Executive Officer of The PGA of America. “We are thrilled to play a role in developing this ground-breaking exhibit, which will honor PGA members and many others who opened new doors of opportunity for generations to come.”

“The PGA TOUR is very pleased to support this important exhibit and to help acknowledge and honor the pioneers and champions of African-American golf,” said PGA TOUR Commissioner Tim Finchem. “We look forward to working with The PGA of America, USGA and the World Golf Hall of Fame & Museum to help present this story in a compelling and educational manner.”

“African-Americans have made significant contributions to the game since it first took firm hold in America in the late 19th century,” said USGA Executive Director Mike Davis. “We are pleased to be working alongside The PGA of America and the PGA TOUR to support this important project and lend our expertise to an exhibition that pays tribute to African-Americans who through their courage, perseverance and love of the game overcame many obstacles to make the game more accessible to all.”

Best-selling author Pete McDaniel will serve as the lead writer on the project. McDaniel is the author of the acclaimed book “Uneven Lies: The Heroic Story of African Americans in Golf’’ and co-wrote and co-produced the documentary “Uneven Fairways.” He is a member of both the African American Golfers Hall of Fame and National Black Golf Hall of Fame.

In addition, artist Mario Chiodo, renowned for his compelling sculptures based on history and social justice, will be bringing to life pivotal moments of African-Americans in golf. Chiodo has created monuments around the country, including the Harriet Tubman/Thomas Garrett Memorial in Wilmington, Del., the Contrabands Freedman's Memorial in Alexandria, Va., and "Remember Them: Champions for Humanity" in Oakland, Calif., the largest human rights monument in the Western United States.

“We hope that this exhibition will serve as both an educational and inspirational force that will highlight the power of the human spirit and golf’s core values,” said Jack Peter, Chief Operating Officer of the World Golf Hall of Fame. “We are thrilled that The PGA of America, the PGA TOUR and the USGA share our vision for this project and thankful that these organizations, Pete McDaniel and Mario Chiodo are all part of this historic venture.”

For more information, including photos, about the World Golf Hall of Fame & Museum and “Honoring the Legacy: A Tribute to African-Americans in Golf,” visit WorldGolfHallofFame.org.

Information provided by SEE-StAugustine.com