ausgolf's tribute to Gary PlayerBorn - 1936

Country - South Africa

PLAYER PROFILE

MAJOR VICTORIES (9)
US Masters - 1961, 1974, 1978
British Open - 1959, 1968, 1974
US Open - 1965
US PGA - 1962, 1972

One of the most sucessful international golfers of all-time, he has probably traveled more miles than any athlete in history, eclispsing twelve million miles.

One of only five players to win golf's Grand Slam joining Gene Sarazen and Ben Hogan in the feat, to later be joined by Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods.

Completed Grand Slam at age 29 in 1965 ... Only player in the 20th century to win the British Open in three different decades.

Last won Masters in 1978 when he started seven strokes behind the leaders entering the final round and won by one shot with birdies at seven of the last 10 holes for a back nine 30 and a final round 64.

One week later came from seven strokes back in the final round to win the Tournament of Champions. The last player to win three tournaments in a row on the PGA Tour when he captured the Houston Open the week following the Tournament of Champions in 1978.


Height: 5 ' 7"
Weight: 150lbs / 68kg
Birthplace: Johannesburg, South Africa
Residence: Palm Beach, Florida
Family: Wife - Vivienne; Children - Jennifer, Marc, Wayne, Michelle, Theresa and Amanda. Thirteen grandchildren
Special Interests: Breeding thoroughbred race horses, farming and physical fitness, The Player Foundation benefiting rural education in South Africa through the Blair Atholl Schools; Black Knight International including Gary Player Enterprises, Gary Player Design, Gary Player Golf Academy and Gary Player Equipment.
Turned Professional: 1953
Joined PGA Tour: 1957
Joined Senior Tour: 1985
Career Championships: 163
Worldwide Career Earnings: Over $12 million

For more information on Gary Player visit his web site at www.garyplayer.com