"...this is the first time that
I have ever
been on the cover of a golf magazine. --Charlie Sifford"

African American Golfer's Digest Publishes
Charlie Sifford Tribute Issue
Special Edition Commemorates Historic
Hall Of Fame Induction
of Legendary African American Golfer
New York, N.Y. (December 1, 2004)--A special, tribute issue
of the African American Golfer’s Digest is
published for its Winter 2004 edition to commemorate the
historic World Golf Hall of Fame Induction of legendary
golfer, Charlie Sifford.
The issue compiles highlights from the November 15th induction
ceremony that was held in St. Augustine, Florida and a full
printed version of Sifford's acceptance speech.
Powerful editorial outlines Sifford’s successful
golf career, displays photos of his trophy case at the World
Golf Hall of Fame and a special interview with the legend
along with spotlights and a photo gallery from the celebration
breakfast are also included.
In 1961 Siford broke through the color barrier and entered
the Greater Greensboro Open as an official member of the
PGA Tour. In 1967 he won the Greater Hartford Open and become
the first African American winner on the PGA Tour. He has
also been chosen to represent the African American Golfers
Digest as its World Golf Ambassador.
According to the Publisher, Debert Cook, "Charlie
gave me a call and said how much he appreciated me and all
that I was going with the publication, and then, he told
me something that I could not believe--"I want you
to know that this is the first time I have EVER been on
the cover of a golf magazine," he said. "After
all of his contributions, wins, triumphs and more, I found
this very difficult to believe," said Cook.
Born on June 2, 1922 In Charlotte, NC, Sifford like many
black golfers from that era, learned the game as a caddie.
“Caddying was the way you learned how to play back
then. Most people think that all the caddies were black,
but whites used to caddy too”. Sifford earned about
50 cents a loop and used the money to help support his mother
Eliza and his 5 siblings.
" Now, after a personal visit to his home, and meeting
up with him at golf events, Charlie and I are very good
friends; and he definitely speaks his mind at all times
and does not hesitate to give me advice on both professional
and personal matters. But, I just love him like an uncle,"
said Cook. Sifford also serves on the publication Advisory
Board and is its World Golf Ambassador.
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